Olive Allergy Test

Olives are a type of fruit that's rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. Although the most prevalent type of olive allergy is caused by olive tree pollen, allergic reaction on exposure to olives is quite uncommon. Since olive oil has significantly fewer proteins than olives, which typically trigger an allergic reaction, you are less likely to experience a reaction if you are sensitive to olives.

Apollo 24|7's Olive Allergy test utilises a blood specimen to detect whether you are allergic to olives. An immune system response in the body gives rise to an olive allergy. IgE antibodies are made against olives if the body recognises them as harmful. The indications of an allergic reaction are brought on by the release of histamine, which is triggered by these antibodies.

Each person's allergy will be different in terms of severity. To help gauge the severity of a person's reaction, an Olive Allergy Test yields numerical findings for IgE antibody levels. A positive result can help an individual's doctor to decide the further course of action.

After intake, allergy symptoms can appear between a few minutes and several hours later. Typical olive allergy symptoms include:

• Hives and rashes 
• Wheezing and coughing 
• Vomiting, diarrhoea, and nausea 
• Dizziness and light-headedness 
• Throat tightening

In severe situations, you could suffer from anaphylaxis or gastrointestinal issues. Anaphylaxis is regarded as a significant emergency which may necessitate prompt medical care. An Olive Allergy test is often requested when someone suffers allergic symptoms soon after consuming olives or foods including olives or olive oil.

This test doesn't call for any special preparation. Keep your doctor informed, though, if you are taking any medications, have any sensitivities, or are undergoing any specific medical procedures. Your doctor will offer instructions based on your current physical and medical conditions.

A blood sample is used for both the fluorescence and enzyme assay techniques. In these processes, allergen-specific IgE is detected in the provided blood sample. IgE levels in the blood indicate whether an individual is allergic to a specific substance if they rise (by more than 100 kU/l). A skin sample is also used in the enzyme assay procedure.

This entails administering a modest quantity of the allergen as a skin test to the individual. 
A 3 mm flare reaction indicates an allergy to olives in the patient. These findings hold true across all age categories and genders.

Olives, in general, must be avoided if an allergic reaction is to be prevented. Nevertheless, despite your concerted effort, you can be exposed to a food that triggers a reaction. Antihistamines, whether prescribed or over-the-counter, may help ease symptoms of a moderate allergic reaction. These medications can treat hives or itching after exposure to olives. Antihistamines, however, cannot manage a significant allergic reaction. You might require an emergency Epinephrine injection and to go to the emergency room if you have a severe allergic response. 
 

Medically reviewed by Dr. Saibal Moitra, Allergist and clinical immunologist, Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals, Kolkata.