The Lowdown on At-Home Allergy Tests: What You Need to Know
Are you tired of constantly sniffling, sneezing, and scratching your way through life? With over 50 million Americans suffering from allergies, it’s no wonder you’re searching for answers. At-home allergy tests can be a great starting point, but how do you know which one is right for you?
Top 5 At-Home Allergy Tests
We’ve rounded up the best at-home allergy tests on the market, taking into account factors like sample collection, lab quality, and results delivery. Here are our top picks:
- Best Overall: Imaware IgE Allergy Test ($$$) – tests for 68 indoor, outdoor, and food allergens
- Best for Seasonal Allergies: Healthlabs.com Seasonal Allergen Testing ($$-$$$) – tests for seasonal respiratory allergens
- Best for Respiratory Allergies: EverlyWell Indoor & Outdoor Allergy Test ($$) – tests for 40 indoor and outdoor allergens
- Best for Pet Allergies: ACCESALABS Cat & Dog Allergy Test Panel ($) – tests for cat and dog dander
- Best Budget: TestMyAllergy Allergy 35 Test ($) – tests for 35 common allergens
How We Chose the Best At-Home Allergy Tests
When selecting the best at-home allergy tests, we considered several key factors:
- Allergens tested: Does the test cover a wide range of allergens, or is it specific to certain categories?
- Sample collection: How easy is it to collect the sample, and what type of sample is required?
- Lab quality: Is the lab CLIA-certified, and are the results accurate and reliable?
- Results delivery: How quickly do you receive your results, and are they easy to understand?
Should You Try an At-Home Allergy Test?
If you’re experiencing symptoms like itchy eyes, sneezing, or congestion, an at-home allergy test can help you identify potential allergens. However, it’s essential to remember that at-home tests are not a diagnosis. If you suspect you have a food allergy or intolerance, it’s best to work with a doctor or nutritionist to confirm a diagnosis.
The Bottom Line
At-home allergy tests can be a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to identify potential allergens. Just remember to always follow up with a doctor or allergist to confirm your results and create a plan to manage your symptoms.
Leave a Reply