What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Lamb's Quarters (Goose Foot) Allergy IgE Blood Test, which measures the IgE antibody levels in the blood to detect an allergy to lamb's quarters (goosefoot). The Goosefoot plant, also known as Chenopodium album, is an annual plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It's wind-pollinated and produces up to 20,000 pollen grains in a season. Its pollination period usually occurs between July and September. The plant can be found in various habitats, such as brush burns, cultivated fields, desert grasslands, juniper-pine forests, overgrazed lands, and logged openings. Although it originated from Eurasia, it is now naturalized throughout North America. Unfortunately, the pollen from this plant can cause allergic reactions like conjunctivitis, allergic rhinitis, and asthma. The IUIS database lists three allergens in Goosefoot weed pollen: Che a 1, Che a 2, and Che a 3. Moreover, this pollen can cause cross-reactivity with other plants in the Chenopodiaceae family, as well as alder, birch pollen, black locust, lilac, sugar beet, timothy grass, and olive.
What causes an allergy to Lamb's Quarters (Goose Foot)?
Lamb's quarters (goosefoot) allergies are triggered by a hypersensitive individual inhaling its pollen. These allergens may trigger a response in their immune system since the body views certain substances as harmful, producing IgE antibodies to combat these invaders. Unfortunately, these antibodies cause histamine to be released, resulting in the symptoms associated with an allergic reaction.
When should I order a Lamb's Quarters (Goose Foot) Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Individuals may order this test if they have experienced symptoms related to a goosefoot allergy. Allergy symptoms vary from one individual to the next ranging from mild to severe reactions, which can occur within minutes to hours after exposure. Common symptoms of a goosefoot allergy may include one or more of the following symptoms:
- Congestion
- Coughing
- Hives
- Itching
- Red or watery eyes
- Lightheadedness
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Sore or scratchy throat
- Sinus pressure causing facial pain
- Swollen, dark-colored skin under the eyes
- Swelling
- Trouble breathing or wheezing
- Poor sleep
- Decreased sense of taste or smell
A severe, possibly life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis can occur in the most severe cases. An anaphylactic response requires immediate medical attention. Signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Rapid or increased pulse
- Swollen throat or lump making it difficult to breathe
- Low blood pressure
- Extreme dizziness or loss of consciousness
