Timothy Grass (Hay) Allergy IgE Blood Test

Order a timothy grass allergy IgE blood test to detect an allergy to timothy grass. This test measures the amount of allergen-specific antibodies in a blood sample. Tall meadow grasses, such as timothy grass, produce the most airborne grass pollen. Timothy grass is a short-lived perennial with flat leaves and thick spike-like flower clusters that can grow up to 5 feet tall. Timothy grass, which releases pollen into the air from spring to fall, is one of the worst grass types for causing hay fever in the early summer. This grass is only second to orchard grass in terms of allergenicity, making it highly allergenic.

Animals ranging from cattle, deer, and horses to our small animal friends such as guinea pigs, rabbits, and chinchillas eat this sustainable plant resource. Allergies may develop as a result of feeding these animals, cleaning their cages or being in areas where they are fed and housed, or being in a location where the allergen is circulated.

An allergy to timothy grass 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, which can be experienced within minutes to hours after exposure. Common symptoms of a timothy grass allergy may include one or more of the following symptoms:

• Puffy eyes
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Headache
• Sinus pressure
• Sneezing
• Itchy throat, mouth, eyes, or skin
• Coughing
• Teary eyes
• Fatigue
• Hives