A cat allergy is no laughing matter.
Cat allergy test nhs.
The only way to diagnose a food allergy is to feed your cat a prescription or hydrolyzed protein diet exclusively for 12 weeks that means no flavored medications or treats.
There are two types of skin allergy tests a skin prick test and an intradermal skin test.
Most cat allergies are caused by an abnormal immune response to what is known as dander the microscopic particles of dead skin shed by cats and other animals with fur or feathers.
Cat allergy symptoms it s likely that if you ve ever stroked a cat and soon after your eyes have started watering you ve become wheezy or your nose has become blocked you ve got a cat allergy.
Wearing a medicalert or medi tag medallion or bracelet can make others aware of your allergy in an emergency.
There are two ways to test for any allergy including to cats.
And challenge testing is always carried out in a clinic where a severe reaction can be treated if it does develop.
Test for allergies to cats.
Skin testing and blood tests.
Preventing severe allergies anaphylaxis if you re at risk of experiencing a severe allergic reaction anaphylaxis make sure you carry 2 adrenaline auto injectors with you everywhere.
Severe allergic reaction anaphylaxis in rare cases an allergy can lead to a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock which can be life threatening.
This test is riskier than other forms of testing as it could cause a severe reaction but is the most accurate way to diagnose food allergies.
The test of choice is an intradermal skin test as blood allergy tests are not considered as reliable.
The use of commercial allergy testing kits isn t recommended.
Scientists discover cure for cat allergies is the premature claim in the daily telegraph.
This is particularly important if you have other allergic conditions such as asthma rhinitis or eczema.
Do you suspect you may have a cat allergy.
These tests are often of a lower standard than those provided by the nhs or accredited private clinics and are generally considered to be unreliable.
Learn more from webmd about the causes symptoms and treatments of allergies to cats.
Allergy tests should be interpreted by a qualified professional who has detailed knowledge of your symptoms and.
Read more about diagnosing allergies.
Before you plan on what to do next it is important to discuss your allergy with a gp or health professional.