What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Dill Allergy IgE Blood Test, which measures the IgE antibody levels in the blood to detect an allergy to dill. Dill is a versatile herb in the Carrot family. Several other plants, such as aniseed, carrot, celery, coriander (cilantro), parsnip, and parsley, belong to this family. It has a sweet and aromatic taste and is used to flavor various dishes. Originally from Western Asia, it's most popular in Germany, Scandinavia, and the Baltics. The leaves and seeds are used in cooking, with the seeds being more pungent and bitter. Dill is also used in herbal vinegar, pickling, and as a garnish for fish and shellfish. It has medicinal uses, including treating digestive problems and relieving period pains. Unfortunately, some hypersensitive individuals may experience an allergic reaction after consuming dill.
What causes an allergic reaction to dill?
Dill can cause oral allergy symptoms due to a protein similar to birch tree pollen and another protein related to latex. It can also act as a skin allergen and cause blisters. Handling dill as a job can lead to a common allergy known as phototoxicity. Dill may trigger a response in the immune system since the body views certain substances as harmful, producing IgE antibodies to combat these invaders. However, these antibodies cause histamine to be released, resulting in the symptoms associated with an allergic reaction.
When should I order a Dill Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Individuals may order this Dill Allergy Blood Test if they have experienced symptoms related to a dill allergy. Allergy symptoms vary depending on the individual, ranging from mild to severe reactions. Most food-related symptoms occur within two hours of ingestion but frequently begin within minutes. In addition, the response can be delayed by four to six hours or even longer in some rare cases.
An allergic reaction may affect the skin, intestinal lining, and air pathways. Individuals with a dill allergy may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Tingling sensation near or around the mouth
- Swelling
- Abdominal discomfort
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Itching or hives
- Congestion
- Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or wheezing
- Lightheadedness
In some cases, a severe, possibly life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis may occur. An anaphylactic response requires immediate medical attention. Signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:
- Rapid or increased heart rate
- Swollen throat or lump making it difficult to breathe
- Low blood pressure
- Extreme dizziness or loss of consciousness
