Horse Dander Allergy IgE Blood Test

Order a horse dander allergy IgE blood test to detect an allergy to horse dander. This test measures the amount of allergen-specific antibodies in a blood sample.

When it comes to allergies, although horses may not be the first animal you think of, you may actually be allergic to them. In certain individuals, substances in a horse's saliva, skin cells, and dander can cause an immune system response, similar to cat and dog allergies.

Dander is flakes of skin and hair, which the horse sheds like dandruff. This shedding will normally trigger allergic reactions. For those who are allergic to horses, an allergic reaction can be caused by contact with the horse and contact with clothing or equipment containing the horse's dander. Also, reactions are possible by simply walking through an empty stable or areas surrounding the stable. Horse dander has been found hundreds of yards away from horse stables and can travel long distances in the air.

An allergy to horse dander triggers a reaction in an individual's immune system. The body views certain substances as toxic and produces IgE antibodies to these contaminants. These antibodies cause histamine to be released, which will cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Allergy symptoms vary from one individual to the next ranging from mild to severe reactions. Common symptoms of a horse dander allergy may include one or more of the following symptoms:

• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Sneezing
• Rash
• Itching
• Hives
• Red, watery eyes