Last Updated on Monday, 19 October 2009 10:36

Hayfever Diagnosis

Consult your GP if you suffer from ongoing symptoms of hayfever. A thorough history and physical examination are usually enough to help your doctor arrive at a diagnosis.

Some tests may occasionally be required to determine the offending trigger if your symptoms are present throughout the year.

• Skin prick test: A small amount of a purified allergen is pricked into the skin of your forearm or upper back. If you are sensitive to this allergen, redness and swelling or a hive will appear at the site of injection.

• Blood test: A blood test known as RAST is used to detect the amount of IgE antibodies in your blood. This is a reflection of your immune system’s response to a specific trigger or allergen.