Allergy to mold, dander, dust

Symptoms:

• runny nose (rhinitis)
• tearing, increased
• itching of the nose, mouth, eyes, throat, skin, or any area
• clear thin watery mucus from nose, may appear suddenly
• sneezing
• sneezing fits (more than three sneezes in a row, happens repeatedly)
• wheezing
• coughing
• difficulty breathing
• skin redness
• redness of the sclera (white of the eyes)
• hives
• skin rashes
• headaches

Signs and tests:

History is important in diagnosing allergies, including whether the symptoms vary according to time of day or the season and possible exposures such as having a pet in the household.

• Elevated antibody/immunoglobulin (particularly IgE) levels that indicate allergic reaction.
• Complement levels may be abnormal.

Testing may reveal the specific allergen(s).

• Skin testing is the most common method of allergy testing. This may include intradermal, scratch, patch, or other tests.
• RAST
• Occasionally, the suspected allergen is dissolved and dropped onto the lining of the lower eyelid (conjunctiva) as a means of testing for allergies.
• Other testing to determine the specific allergen may include various types of "use" or "elimination" tests where suspected items are eliminated and/or introduced while the person is observed for response to the substance.

This disease may also alter the results of the following tests:

• a WBC count
• a CBC
• immunoelectrophoresis - serum