Ginger Allergy IgE Blood Test

The ginger allergy IgE blood test measures the amount of allergen-specific IgE antibodies in the blood in order to detect an allergy to ginger. Ginger is commonly used for medical and culinary purposes. The underground stem is sometimes referred to as the ginger root or simply ginger and is used raw or dried powder. Ginger is an ingredient in many foods and beverages, such as gingerbread, ginger ale, and ginger tea. Raw ginger root or ginger supplements are also promoted to help relieve a number of ailments such as stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, and motion sickness.

Ginger is a member of the Zingiberaceae family. If an individual has an allergy to ginger, it is possible to have an allergy to other foods in this food family, which include:

• Cardamom
• Turmeric
• Galangal
• East Indian Arrowroot
• Black Ginger 

When using ginger for culinary purposes, sometimes the taste is very pronounced, but often it is more subtle. Foods that are commonly known to contain ginger include:

• Baked goods
• Herbal teas
• Candies
• Marinades
• Cough Drops 
• Root beer
• Curries
• Curry powder
• Salad dressing
• Egg Nog
• Sauces
• Stews
• Ginger ale
• Ginger beer
• Ginder tea
• Gingerbread 
• Sushi
• Soups

Like every allergy, a ginger allergy causes a reaction in the immune system. When contact is made with the allergen, the body views it as toxic and becomes sensitized, producing IgE antibodies against these contaminants. These antibodies trigger the release of histamines, which will cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Allergy symptoms vary from one individual to the next ranging from mild to severe reactions. Some common symptoms can include one or more of the following:

• Runny nose
• Dry cough
• Hives
• Itchy eyes
• Swelling or itching of the mouth and lips
• Irritated throat
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Vomiting
• Fainting
• Dizziness
• Difficulty swallowing