Allergen testing for allergic conjunctivitis: what to test and when
Tests are used to look for clues. Whether you need them, and which ones, should be decided by a doctor.
Common methods
- Skin prick test: to find out whether you are sensitised to house dust mite, pollen, pet dander and other allergens
- Specific IgE test: a blood test that measures the level of related antibodies
- Conjunctival challenge test: arranged by a doctor only in specific situations
When to consider testing
Your doctor may suggest tests if your symptoms keep coming back, affect your study or daily life, or if it is important to know whether you need long-term environmental control and allergen immunotherapy. People who are already following a proper management plan and whose triggers are clear may not need repeated testing.
How to use the results
A positive result only means sensitisation is possible. Whether it truly causes symptoms must be judged together with the season when symptoms appear, environmental exposure and eye findings. A negative result cannot completely rule it out either. Test results should be interpreted by a doctor together with your medical history, and used to make a plan for environmental control and follow-up care. It is not advised to avoid foods or limit activities long term based on test numbers alone.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If your symptoms affect daily life, please see a doctor.