Mustard Allergy IgE Blood Test

Order this Mustard Allergy test to measure the IgE antibody levels in a blood sample to detect a food allergy to mustard. Mustard is a popular spice made from the seeds of the mustard green plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae (Cabbage) family with origins in Europe and Asia. Other plants in the cabbage family include broccoli, cabbage, Brussel sprouts, turnips, and cauliflower. For thousands of years, the mustard plant and seeds have been used to enhance the flavor of certain dishes, preserve meat, and for their medicinal properties.

Mustard has been used to treat digestive issues, colds, rheumatism, skin rashes, respiratory problems, and sciatica pain. However, the mustard plant is mainly grown for its seeds, which are used to make one of the oldest condiments of the same name. Common products and dishes that contain mustard include:

• Condiments
• Chips and pretzels
• Salad dressings, sauces, and curries
• Pickles and other pickled products
• Dehydrated soups
• Dehydrated mashed potatoes
• Processed Meats
• Seasonings and flavoring agents

Although spice allergies are rare, mustard allergies are classified as the most common spice allergy. The key allergens found in mustard are the proteins Sin a 1, Sin a 2, Sin a 3, Sin a 4, and Bra j 1. The immune system views these allergens as harmful and produces IgE antibodies to combat the invaders. Unfortunately, these antibodies cause the release of a chemical called histamine, triggering the symptoms associated with an allergic reaction.

An allergic reaction may occur minutes to a few hours after exposure to an allergen. The reaction may range from mild or moderate to severe and differ for each individual. An individual allergic to melons may experience the following symptoms:

• Tingling sensation in or around the mouth
• Swelling
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Itching, hives, or eczema
• Congestion
• Trouble breathing or wheezing
• Lightheadedness

An extreme, possibly life-threatening allergic reaction is known as anaphylaxis and can occur in the most severe cases. An anaphylactic response requires immediate medical attention. Signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• Rapid or increased pulse
• Swollen throat or lump making it difficult to breathe
• Low blood pressure
• Extreme dizziness or loss of consciousness