Allergy Testing (Blood Test) | Dermatology Outpatient

🤧 “What types of allergy tests are available?”
😷 “What are the symptoms of allergies, and how are they treated?”

If you have been wondering about these questions, you are not alone.

Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to foreign substances that enter the body.

This article explains the types of allergy tests and the symptoms associated with allergies. The latter half also covers the cost of allergy testing and how to manage allergic reactions, so please read to the end.

🔍 What Is an Allergy Test?

An allergy test is a blood test used to identify what types of allergies you may have.

Allergens that can trigger allergic reactions include a wide range of substances such as 🌸 pollen, 🏠 house dust, 🍽️ foods, and 💍 metals.

Knowing your specific allergens through allergy testing means you can avoid them in daily life.

In particular, depending on your constitution, certain allergens may trigger severe reactions such as anaphylactic shock, so it is advisable to identify your allergens in advance to protect your health.

📊 Types of Allergy Tests

There are three main types of allergy tests:

• 🔸 MAST36
• 🔸 MAST48mix
• 🔸 VIEW39

Allergy tests are performed through 💉 blood sampling, and the type of test is selected based on the suspected allergens.

The following sections describe the test items and characteristics of each type.

📝 Allergy Test (1) MAST36

MAST36 allows simultaneous measurement of 36 allergens that are among the most common causes of allergic reactions.

The test covers the following categories:

Examples of allergens covered by MAST36 include:

• 🥛 Milk
• 🌾 Wheat
• 🫘 Soybean
• 🌲 Japanese cedar (Sugi)
• 🌳 Japanese cypress (Hinoki)

While the number of items is limited, the test covers fundamental allergens.

📝 Allergy Test (2) MAST48mix

MAST48mix is an allergy test that builds on MAST36 by adding 6 mix items (covering 18 allergen types).

A “mix” item is one that includes multiple allergens within a single test category. If an allergic reaction is detected in a mix item, further individual allergy testing will be required.

The newly added mix items are:

• 🌰 Tree nuts
• 🍄 Mold
• 🌿 Ragweed
• 🌾 Grass (Poaceae)
• 🦠 Dust mites
• 🐕🐈 Pets (dog and cat)

If any of the above allergens are suspected, MAST48mix is recommended.

📝 Allergy Test (3) VIEW39

VIEW39 is an allergy test that expands on the MAST36 panel by incorporating items that have been gaining recognition in recent years.

Additional items include 🦟 insects such as moths and 🪳 cockroaches. The panel also covers allergens not found in MAST36, such as 🐟 mackerel, 🍎 apple, 🦠 Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (house dust mite), and 🍄 Malassezia.

💰 Cost of the 39-Item Allergy Test

The estimated costs for allergy testing are as follows:

When allergy symptoms are present, allergy testing may be covered by public health insurance.

❓ What Exactly Is an Allergy?

An allergy is a condition in which the immune system overreacts to substances such as 🌸 pollen or 🍽️ food proteins, causing various effects on the body.

There are two types of immunity:

• 🛡️ Innate immunity: immunity that living organisms are naturally born with
• 💪 Acquired immunity: immunity developed in response to external stimuli

Allergies are believed to involve a type of antibody called “IgE,” which is part of acquired immunity and functions to protect the body.

When IgE levels in the body increase, the immune system may begin to overreact to specific substances — this is the mechanism behind allergic reactions.

IgE can also be produced in response to substances such as 🦠 dust mites, 🌸 pollen, and 🍽️ food proteins.

Additionally, an “allergic constitution” — the tendency to produce IgE more readily — is thought to be hereditary.

😷 Symptoms of Allergies

Allergies can cause symptoms such as:

• 💧 Runny nose
• 🤧 Sneezing
• 😮‍💨 Coughing
• 🤕 Sore throat
• 😪 Fatigue

Allergy symptoms can resemble those of a common cold, but differences include a watery nasal discharge and frequent, repeated sneezing.

Some individuals may also experience 👁️ itchy or red eyes, skin itching, or hives.

In the case of food allergies, consuming the trigger food may lead to anaphylactic shock and respiratory distress, which requires careful attention.

Since allergic reactions can vary depending on individual constitution and physical condition, avoid known allergens as much as possible.

💊 Treatment Options for Allergies

There is currently no curative treatment for allergies; management is primarily symptomatic.

The most important step in managing allergies is to avoid allergens.

For example, keeping away from inhalant allergens such as 🌸 pollen and 🐕 pet dander is a key preventive measure.

If a specific food is identified as an allergen, avoid consuming it.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Allergy Testing

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about allergy testing.

🏥 For Allergy Testing in Tokyo, Consult IC Clinic

In severe cases, allergies can be life-threatening due to anaphylactic shock.

By undergoing allergy testing and identifying your allergens in advance, you can take steps to avoid triggering an allergic reaction.

If you have not yet had an allergy test, or if you suspect you may have any allergic sensitivities, consider getting tested to help protect your health and wellbeing.

IC Clinic strives to be a welcoming clinic where patients of all ages and backgrounds feel comfortable seeking advice.

Whatever your symptoms, we work together with our patients to discuss and suggest appropriate treatment options. If you think you may have an allergy, please do not hesitate to contact IC Clinic.

📋 Detailed Guide to the Allergy Testing Process and Preparation

✅ Pre-Test Preparation and Points to Note

To help ensure accurate allergy test results, there are several important points to keep in mind before your test.

💊 Medications you are taking If you are currently taking antihistamines or corticosteroids, these may affect your test results. These medications suppress immune responses, which can cause results that would otherwise be positive to appear negative. Before your test, be sure to consult your doctor about any medications you are taking, and discuss whether temporarily discontinuing them may be necessary.

🌡️ Managing your physical condition If you have a cold, fever, or are under significant stress, your immune system may not be functioning normally, and accurate results may not be obtained. It is important to be in good physical health when undergoing testing.

🍽️ Food and diet Since this is a blood test, no special fasting is required. However, on the day of your test, try to eat as you normally would. It is advisable to avoid consuming unusually large amounts of food or trying new foods for the first time.

📊 How to Read and Interpret Allergy Test Results

Allergy test results are evaluated based on specific IgE antibody levels.

Classification criteria

• ⚪ Class 0 (below 0.34): Negative
• 🟡 Class 1 (0.35–0.69): Borderline positive
• 🟠 Class 2 (0.70–3.49): Positive
• 🟠 Class 3 (3.50–17.49): Positive
• 🔴 Class 4 (17.50–49.99): Strongly positive
• 🔴 Class 5 (50.00–99.99): Strongly positive
• ⚫ Class 6 (100 or above): Very strongly positive

📈 What the numbers mean Class 2 or above is considered positive, but a higher value does not necessarily mean more severe symptoms. Conversely, a Class 1 borderline positive result can still be associated with actual allergic symptoms in some individuals. It is important to interpret test results together with symptoms as a whole.

⚠️ False positives and false negatives Allergy tests can sometimes produce a “false positive” (a positive result despite no actual allergy) or a “false negative” (a negative result despite an existing allergy). This is a limitation of testing, and ongoing monitoring of symptoms or additional testing may be required.

👶 Allergy Characteristics and Management by Age Group

🍼 Infants and Toddlers (0–2 years)

Because the digestive system and immune system are still developing in infancy and early childhood, food allergies are most common during this period.

Common allergens

• 🥚 Egg (most common)
• 🥛 Cow’s milk and dairy products
• 🌾 Wheat
• 🫘 Soybean

Characteristic symptoms In infants and toddlers, skin symptoms are often predominant, appearing as eczema or atopic dermatitis. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea may also occur.

Key management points When introducing solid foods, it is important to introduce one new ingredient at a time in small amounts, and observe the child for three days before introducing the next. If there is a family history of allergies, proceed with particular care.

🎒 School-Age Children (3–12 years)

During school age, food allergies tend to improve, while allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma caused by environmental allergens become more common.

Common allergens

• 🦠 Dust mites and house dust
• 🌸 Pollen (Japanese cedar, cypress, etc.)
• 🐕 Pet dander
• 🦐 Crustaceans (newly developed)

Characteristic symptoms The main symptoms include allergic rhinitis symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes, as well as respiratory symptoms such as coughing and wheezing.

Considerations at school Attention is needed for allergy management during school lunches and for exercise-induced allergies during physical education classes. If an EpiPen has been prescribed, coordination with the school is also important.

🎓 Adolescents and Young Adults

Due to hormonal changes, new allergies that were not present before may develop.

Characteristic allergies

• 🍎 Oral allergy syndrome (pollen-food allergy syndrome)
• 💄 Contact dermatitis from cosmetics or metals
• 🧤 Latex allergy

Impact on lifestyle Stress from entrance exams or job hunting can worsen symptoms. Managing allergens when starting to live independently also becomes an important consideration.

👨‍💼 Adults

It is not uncommon for allergies to develop for the first time in adulthood.

Occupational allergies Certain allergies can develop as a result of working in specific professions.

• ✂️ Hair stylists: hair dye allergy
• ⚕️ Healthcare workers: latex allergy
• 🌾 Agricultural workers: pesticide allergy
• 🍽️ Food industry workers: specific food ingredient allergy

Food allergies in adults It is possible to suddenly develop an allergy to a food that was previously eaten without any problem. This is particularly seen with 🦐 crustaceans, 🍎 fruits, and 🌰 nuts.

🌸 Seasonal Allergy Management Guide

🌸 Spring (March–May): Hay Fever Season

Major allergens

• 🌲 Japanese cedar pollen (late February – early April)
• 🌳 Japanese cypress pollen (late March – early May)
• 🌲 Japanese white birch pollen (April – June)

Helpful measures

1. 📱 Stay informed: Check daily pollen forecasts
2. 😷 When going out: Wear a mask and glasses, and choose clothing that pollen is less likely to cling to
3. 🚿 When returning home: Brush off clothing before entering, and wash hands, gargle, and rinse your face thoroughly
4. 🏠 Home environment: Keep windows closed, use an air purifier, and dry laundry indoors
5. 💊 Preventive medication: Begin taking anti-allergy medication before symptoms appear

☀️ Summer (June–August): Focus on Dust Mites and Mold

Major allergens

• 🦠 Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus
• 🦠 Dermatophagoides farinae
• 🍄 Various molds (Cladosporium, Alternaria, etc.)

Helpful measures

1. 💧 Humidity control: Maintain indoor humidity at 50% or below
2. 🛏️ Bedding care: Wash at high temperature (60°C or above) at least once a week
3. 🧹 Cleaning: Use a vacuum cleaner with dust mite allergen removal capability
4. 🛁 Mold prevention: Ensure thorough ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens, and take anti-mold measures

🍂 Autumn (September–November): Watch Out for Weed Pollen and Dust Mites

Major allergens

• 🌿 Ragweed pollen
• 🌿 Mugwort pollen
• 🌿 Japanese hop pollen
• 🦠 Dust mites (accumulation of dead mites and droppings)

Helpful measures In addition to the measures used for spring hay fever, be aware of allergies caused by the dead bodies and droppings of dust mites that proliferated during summer. As this is also a time for thorough cleaning and replacing bedding, be sure to ventilate well and wear a mask.

❄️ Winter (December–February): Indoor Allergens and Dry Air

Major allergens

• 🦠 Dust mites and house dust
• 🐕🐈 Pet dander
• 🍄 Mold

Helpful measures Heating systems can dry out indoor air, so appropriate humidity management is important. In addition, allergen concentrations indoors tend to rise due to insufficient ventilation, making regular ventilation and the use of an air purifier important.

🍽️ Detailed Guide to Food Allergies

🥚🥛🌾 The Three Major Food Allergens in Detail

🥚 Egg allergy Eggs are the most common food allergen in infancy and early childhood. The primary cause is a protein called ovomucoid found in egg whites.

Symptoms: Skin symptoms (eczema, hives), gastrointestinal symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea), respiratory symptoms (coughing, wheezing)

Foods to be aware of: Mayonnaise, cakes, bread, noodles, some vaccines

Effect of cooking: Thoroughly cooked eggs may cause milder symptoms in some individuals, but in cases of severe allergy, even cooked eggs should be avoided.

🥛 Cow’s milk allergy The cause is proteins in cow’s milk such as casein and β-lactoglobulin.

Symptoms: Primarily gastrointestinal, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Foods to be aware of: Cheese, yogurt, ice cream, bread, confectionery, processed foods

Alternatives: Plant-based milks such as soy milk, almond milk, and oat milk

🌾 Wheat allergy The cause is gluten and other proteins found in wheat. This is a different condition from celiac disease.

Symptoms: Skin symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms, exercise-induced anaphylaxis

Foods to be aware of: Bread, noodles, confectionery, soy sauce, beer, cosmetics

Alternatives: Rice flour, tapioca starch, almond flour, and similar substitutes

👨‍🦱 Food Allergies Common in Adults

🦐 Crustacean allergy An allergy to crustaceans such as shrimp and crab, which tends to develop in adulthood.

Main symptoms: Hives, angioedema, anaphylactic shock

Points to note: Caution is also needed with chitin/chitosan supplements derived from crushed crustacean shells, glucosamine, and imitation crab products.

🐟 Fish allergy Allergies to specific fish species or fish in general.

Common fish: Mackerel, tuna, salmon, sardine

Symptoms: Tingling in the mouth, hives, respiratory symptoms

🍎 Fruit and vegetable allergy (oral allergy syndrome) This often develops in association with hay fever, causing itching or swelling in the mouth after eating raw fruits or vegetables.

Association with pollen:

• 🌲 Japanese cedar/cypress pollen: 🍅 Tomato
• 🌳 Japanese white birch pollen: 🍎 Apple, 🍑 Peach, 🍒 Cherry, 🌰 Almond
• 🌿 Ragweed pollen: 🍈 Melon, 🍉 Watermelon, 🍌 Banana

Management: Cooking the food often helps avoid symptoms in many cases.

💊 Current Allergy Treatments

💊 Sublingual Immunotherapy

This is a treatment approach for allergies that has attracted attention in recent years. It involves administering small amounts of an allergen under the tongue to gradually desensitize the body.

Applicable allergies

• 🌲 Japanese cedar hay fever
• 🦠 Dust mite allergic rhinitis

Treatment process

1. 🏥 First dose administered at a medical facility
2. 🏠 Subsequent doses administered at home daily
3. 📅 Treatment period of 3–5 years
4. 🏥 Regular follow-up visits to monitor progress

Effects and important notes Symptom reduction may be expected in approximately 70–80% of patients. However, because there is a risk of anaphylactic shock after starting treatment, this therapy is conducted with thorough explanation and informed consent.

💉 Biologics

A newer treatment approach used for severe allergic asthma and atopic dermatitis.

Main agents

• 💊 Anti-IgE antibody (omalizumab)
• 💊 Anti-IL-4 receptor antibody (dupilumab)
• 💊 Anti-IL-5 antibody (mepolizumab)

Indications Reserved for severe cases where conventional treatments have not provided sufficient benefit. The cost of treatment can be considerable, but significant symptom improvement may be expected in some cases.

💉 Allergen Immunotherapy (Desensitization Therapy)

A conventional form of immunotherapy in which allergen extracts are administered by injection. It may be chosen when sublingual immunotherapy is not feasible or when multiple allergens need to be addressed.

🏠 Allergies and Lifestyle

🏠 Improving Your Living Environment

Home environment measures against dust mites

• ✅ Choose flooring over tatami mats
• ✅ Remove carpets or have them cleaned regularly
• ✅ Use dust mite-proof covers for bedding
• ✅ Regularly freeze or wash stuffed toys
• ✅ Keep indoor humidity at 50% or below

Home environment measures against pollen

• ✅ Air purifier with a high-performance filter (HEPA filter)
• ✅ Measures to prevent pollen from entering around windows
• ✅ Designate a space at the entrance for removing pollen

🍽️ Diet and Allergies

Improving gut health Research is showing that the balance of gut bacteria can influence allergy symptoms.

Beneficial foods:

• 🥛 Fermented foods (yogurt, miso, kimchi) ※ if no allergy to these
• 🥬 Foods rich in dietary fiber
• 🐟 Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil, flaxseed oil)

Foods with antioxidant properties Since reactive oxygen species can worsen allergy symptoms, actively incorporating foods with antioxidant properties is encouraged.

Recommended foods:

• 🍊 Foods rich in vitamin C (citrus fruits, broccoli)
• 🌰 Foods rich in vitamin E (nuts, vegetable oils)
• 🍵 Foods rich in polyphenols (green tea, blueberries)

🚨 Responding to Severe Allergic Reactions

🚨 Recognizing and Responding to Anaphylactic Shock

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. Prompt action can be critical.

Progression of symptoms

1. Early symptoms (within 5–30 minutes)
   • Skin: widespread hives, itching, flushing
   • Gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea
   • Respiratory: runny nose, sneezing, mild cough
2. Progressing symptoms (within 30 minutes to 2 hours)
   • Drop in blood pressure, impaired consciousness
   • Difficulty breathing, wheezing
   • Swelling of the face and throat
3. Severe symptoms
   • Shock
   • Cardiac arrest
   • Respiratory arrest

Steps to take

1. Use an EpiPen immediately (if prescribed)
2. Call 119 to request an ambulance
3. Keep the person in a calm, stable position (shock position)
4. Secure the airway and monitor breathing and pulse
5. Continue treatment at a medical facility

💉 How to Use an EpiPen

An EpiPen (epinephrine auto-injector) is an emergency medication used in the event of anaphylactic shock.

How to use it

1. 🟠 Remove the orange safety cap
2. 🦵 Hold the pen perpendicular to the outer thigh
3. ⬇️ Press firmly until you hear a “click”
4. ⏱️ Hold in place for 10 seconds
5. 💆 Remove the needle and massage the injection site

Important points

• ✅ Can be administered through clothing
• ✅ Always call for an ambulance even after using the EpiPen
• ✅ Check the EpiPen’s expiry date regularly
• ✅ Make sure family members and those around you also know how to use it

🧠 Common Misconceptions and Accurate Information about Allergies

❌ Common Misconceptions

❌ Misconception 1: “Allergies are all in your head”
✅ The facts: Allergies are a physical condition caused by an abnormal immune system response. Psychological factors can worsen symptoms, but the underlying cause is an immunological mechanism.

❌ Misconception 2: “A positive allergy test result is not a problem if you have no symptoms”
✅ The facts: A positive test result does not mean allergic symptoms will definitely appear, but there is a possibility that symptoms may develop in the future. Symptoms can also appear when combined with factors such as fatigue or stress.

❌ Misconception 3: “Natural foods are safe”
✅ The facts: Even natural foods can cause allergic reactions. In fact, less processed foods are more likely to contain allergen proteins in their original form, so care is still needed.

❌ Misconception 4: “Allergies go away in childhood”
✅ The facts: Some food allergies such as egg or milk allergy may improve as a child grows, but not all allergies resolve. In addition, new allergies can develop in adulthood.

🧬 Allergies and Genetics

Family history and risk

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Both parents have an allergic constitution: child’s risk of developing allergies approx. 60–70%
• 👨‍👩‍👧 One parent has an allergic constitution: child’s risk of developing allergies approx. 30–40%
• 👪 Neither parent has allergies: child’s risk of developing allergies approx. 10–15%

Prevention Complete prevention is difficult, but the following measures may help reduce the risk of developing allergies:

• 🤰 Appropriate nutritional management during pregnancy and breastfeeding
• 👶 Appropriate timing for introducing solid foods in infancy
• 🏠 Raising children in an environment that is not excessively sterile
• 🤱 Breastfeeding is recommended where possible

🏢 Allergy Management in the Workplace

🏢 Improving the Work Environment

Office environment

• ✅ Install air purifiers
• ✅ Regular cleaning and dust removal
• ✅ Appropriate care of indoor plants
• ✅ Restrict the use of fragrances and air fresheners

Considerations for cafeterias and canteens

• ✅ Thorough allergen labelling
• ✅ Cleaning and separation of cooking utensils
• ✅ Provision of alternative foods
• ✅ Preparation of an emergency response manual

⚖️ Rights of Allergy Patients in the Workplace

Under the Industrial Safety and Health Act, allergy management in the workplace is an obligation of employers.

Employer obligations

• 📊 Measurement of the work environment and improvement measures
• 🛡️ Measures to prevent allergen exposure
• 🏥 Health checks and follow-up
• 🚨 Establishment of an emergency response system

Employee rights

• ✅ The right to a safe and healthy work environment
• ✅ The right to appropriate management of allergy information
• ✅ The right to receive reasonable accommodations

👶 Raising and Educating Children with Allergies

👶 Points to Note in Infancy and Early Childhood

Introducing solid foods Introduction of foods that are high-risk allergens should be done carefully, following these guidelines:

1. 📅 Start from around 5–6 months of age
2. 🥄 Introduce one new food at a time, starting with a small amount
3. 📊 Continue with the same food for 3 days and monitor for reactions
4. 🌅 Give foods in the morning and observe for symptoms
5. 👨‍👩‍👧 Do this when a family member is present

Importance of skin care A weakened skin barrier function increases the risk of developing food allergies. Appropriate skin care from infancy is important.

🏫 At Nursery Schools and Kindergartens

Preparation before enrolment

• 📝 Submit an allergy management guidance form
• 🚨 Develop an emergency response plan
• 🍱 Prepare alternative foods
• 💉 Explain how to store and use the EpiPen

Day-to-day precautions

• ✅ Prevent food sharing with other children
• ✅ Thorough handwashing guidance
• ✅ Communication system in place when allergy symptoms appear

🎒 Allergy Management at School

School life management guidance form A detailed guidance form prepared by a physician enables appropriate management at school.

Contents:

• 📋 Details of allergens
• 📊 Severity of symptoms
• 🚨 Emergency response procedures
• 💊 Information on medications used
• 🏃 Whether exercise restrictions apply

School lunch management

• ✅ Provision of detailed ingredient information
• ✅ Preparation of alternative foods
• ✅ Prevention of cross-contamination during cooking
• ✅ Verification procedures at the time of serving

🔗 The Relationship Between Allergies and Other Conditions

🔄 The Allergic March

Allergic conditions tend to change in presentation over time, a phenomenon known as the “allergic march.”

Typical progression

1. 👶 Infancy: Atopic dermatitis, food allergy
2. 🧒 Early childhood: Onset of bronchial asthma
3. 🎒 School age: Onset of allergic rhinitis
4. 🎓 Adolescence and beyond: Changes in symptoms, onset of new allergies

Importance of early intervention It is becoming understood that appropriate treatment of atopic dermatitis may help reduce the likelihood of subsequently developing asthma or allergic rhinitis.

⚠️ Risk of Complications

Relationship with bronchial asthma Allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma are closely related, and are understood through the concept of “one airway, one disease.” Appropriate treatment of rhinitis can contribute to the prevention and improvement of asthma.

Relationship with sinusitis Chronic allergic rhinitis increases the risk of developing sinusitis as a complication. In particular, eosinophilic sinusitis can be difficult to treat and may require corticosteroid therapy or surgery.

😰 The Relationship Between Stress and Allergies

🧠 The Mind-Body Connection

Stress is an important factor that can worsen allergy symptoms.

How stress affects allergies

• 🔴 Disruption of the immune system’s balance
• 🔥 Increased inflammatory response
• 📈 Heightened sensitivity to symptoms
• 💊 Reduced effectiveness of medication

Stress management approaches

1. ⏰ Regular routine: Adequate sleep and a balanced diet
2. 🏃 Moderate exercise: Helps normalise immune function and relieve stress
3. 🧘 Relaxation: Deep breathing, meditation, yoga
4. 🎨 Hobbies and leisure: Time for stress relief activities
5. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Social support: Maintaining good relationships with family and friends

😴 Sleep and Allergies

Effects of sleep deprivation

• ⬇️ Weakened immune function
• 📈 Increased stress hormones
• 😷 Worsening of symptoms
• 💊 Reduced effectiveness of treatment

Creating an environment for quality sleep

• ✅ A bedroom free of allergens
• ✅ Appropriate temperature and humidity control
• ✅ Light and sound blocking measures
• ✅ Regular washing and replacement of bedding

🤰 Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Allergies

🤰 Managing Allergies During Pregnancy

Points regarding medication There are restrictions on the use of allergy medications during pregnancy. Women who may be pregnant or who are pregnant should always consult their doctor before taking any medication.

Medications considered relatively safe

• 💊 Certain antihistamines
• 👁️ Topical corticosteroids (nasal spray, eye drops)
• 💧 Nasal irrigation with saline solution

🤱 Points to Note While Breastfeeding

Effects on breast milk Even if a breastfeeding mother consumes allergens, it is generally rare for allergic symptoms to appear in the infant through breast milk. However, in the case of infants with severe food allergies, dietary restrictions for the mother may be considered in consultation with a doctor.

Use of medication There are allergy medications that can be used relatively safely while breastfeeding. Do not stop taking medication on your own — continue appropriate treatment in consultation with your doctor.

👴 Allergies in Older Adults

👴 How Ageing Affects Allergies

As people age, immune function changes, and allergy symptoms and responses to treatment may also change.

Characteristic changes

• 🆕 Development of new allergies
• 🔄 Changes in the presentation of existing allergies
• 💊 Changes in response to medications
• ⚠️ Increased risk of side effects

Allergies requiring particular attention

• 💊 Drug allergy
• 🐟 Food allergy (especially seafood)
• 🧤 Latex allergy (medical devices)

💊 Management for Older Adults

Medication management For older adults taking multiple medications, the risk of drug interactions and allergic reactions increases. Making use of a medication record booklet and reviewing medications regularly is important.

Adjusting the living environment Declining physical function can make it more difficult to avoid allergens as before. Consider family support, improvements to the home environment, and use of care services where appropriate.

✈️ Managing Allergies While Travelling

🗾 Points to Note for Domestic Travel

Preparation before departure

• 📋 Research allergen information at your destination
• 💊 Bring an adequate supply of medications
• 💉 Carry an EpiPen (if prescribed)
• 📇 Prepare an allergy information card

Considerations at accommodation

• 🐕 Confirm whether pets are allowed on the premises
• 🛏️ Check allergen measures for bedding
• 🍽️ Confirm that allergy-friendly meals are available

🌏 Points to Note for International Travel

Language preparation Be prepared to communicate your allergy information in the local language or in English.

Example phrases in English:

• ⚠️ I have a severe allergy to…
• 💊 This is my emergency medication.
• 🚑 Please call an ambulance.

Checking medical facilities It is important to research the medical infrastructure at your destination and how to respond in an emergency before you travel.

🔬 New Technologies and the Future of Allergy Testing

🔬 Molecular Allergen Testing

A newer testing method that examines detailed allergen components that conventional tests could not identify.

Advantages

• 🎯 More precise identification of allergens
• 🔄 Prediction of cross-reactivity
• 📊 Prediction of severity
• 💊 Individualised treatment planning

Applicable allergies

• 🌸 Hay fever (Japanese cedar, Japanese white birch, etc.)
• 🥜 Food allergy (peanut, milk, etc.)
• 🧤 Latex allergy

🧬 Use of Biomarkers

Latest research trends

• 📊 Measurement of eosinophil counts
• 📈 Assessment of total IgE levels
• 🧬 Cytokine profiling
• 🦠 Microbiome analysis

These new indicators are helping to make more precise allergy diagnosis and treatment decisions possible.

✅ Summary: Living Well with Allergies

💡 The Right Mindset

While allergies can be difficult to fully resolve, with the right knowledge and appropriate measures, it is possible to manage symptoms and maintain a comfortable quality of life.

Key points

1. 🔍 Accurate diagnosis: Identifying the cause through appropriate allergy testing
2. 🎯 Personalised measures: Specific steps tailored to your own allergies
3. 🔄 Ongoing management: Regular review and adjustment
4. 🚨 Preparedness for emergencies: Readiness for severe reactions
5. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Understanding from those around you: Appropriate sharing of information with family and colleagues

🏥 Choosing the Right Medical Facility

The importance of an allergy specialist In addition to general internal medicine or dermatology, seeing an allergy specialist can enable more specialised and personalised treatment.

Seeking a second opinion If treatment is not producing sufficient results, or if you have doubts about a diagnosis, seeking a second opinion from another medical facility is also important.

Regular follow-up Allergies are a condition in which symptoms can change over time. Regular testing and check-ups allow for appropriate adjustments to your treatment.

By gaining accurate knowledge about allergies and taking appropriate measures, it is possible to live well alongside allergies and enjoy a fulfilling life.