Environmental and Food
Allergy Testing
We offer various tests to find the root cause of your symptoms.
Systemic Chronic Inflammation, Allergies, and Autoimmunity
Systemic Chronic Inflammation caused by allergies, microorganisms, pathogens, environmental and food substances can result in body, muscle, and joint pain as well as fatigue, depression, anxiety, weight gain, brain fog, and gastrointestinal problems (constipation, diarrea, acid reflux and bloating). It can progress, or worsen, other disorders such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), Arthritis, Heart Disease, Diabetes, Asthma/Allergies, Dementia and Obesity.
Left untreated, your immune system can become “hyperactive,” attacking healthy cells, resulting in autoimmune reactions, or may over-respond to low-grade stimuli, resulting in a neverending cycle of the symptoms above and/or worsening of:
Multiple Sclerosis
- Lyme disease
- Alopecia Aerata
- Crohn’s disease
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic fatigue
- Some forms of psoriasis
- Sarcoidosis
- Autoimmune arthritis
- Ulcerative colitis
- Myositis
- Endometriosis
- Interstitial cystitis
Other Associated Conditions Related to Allergies
Sleep Apnea/Snoring, Irritability, Migraines, Canker Sores, Hair Loss/Alopecia, Frequent Sinus/Ear Infections, Gastritis/Acid Reflux, Frequent Colds/Bronchitis, Dizziness, Dark Circles Under Eyes, Shortness of Breath, Wheezing/Coughing.
We offer various tests to find the root cause of your symptoms. You may need one or a few based on your symptoms and history.
Testing Available
Allergy Skin Scratch tests
Skin scratch tests involve applying known allergens directly to your skin using an applicator with pricked tips on your arm. This test helps determine acute allergic reactions to environmental (animals, dust, plants, molds, and weeds) and food sources. Developing a small bump at the site of the application is a positive indication that the substance is an allergy trigger. We will carefully monitor your health throughout the skin allergy test. Results are available immediately after testing.
Blood Tests
Blood tests may be used to isolate microorganisms, substances, toxic materials, and antibodies that are produced when you make contact with an allergen.
Testing for the presence of IgG antibodies is helpful for individuals who suspect that a food is responsible for causing their symptoms. C circulating IgG antibodies in foods may also suggest increased intestinal permeability, called “leaky gut syndrome,” resulting in a more excellent immune response. Your blood will be drawn in our office and will take 1-2 weeks to process
Gastrointestinal (GI) Stool Tests
Poor eating habits, medications, stress, smoking, and more can encourage the growth of unhealthy bacteria, triggering a cascade of inflammation resulting in systemic chronic health issues such as weight gain, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, cancers, and more.
Comprehensive stool tests are collected at home and provide valuable information about digestion, inflammation, and bacterial overgrowth to identify the source and possible diagnosis to explain your symptoms, such as pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, inflammation, food allergies, and harmful organisms. Results are available within 1-2 weeks.
Nutritional and Toxic Exposure Testing
Blood and urine samples are collected to assess functional, metabolic, and nutritional status to identify root causes of dysfunction and provide a systems-based approach to overcoming chronic conditions. You will receive personalized vitamin and dietary recommendations to support immune balance based on your results within 1-2 weeks.
Treatment
Determining your triggers or the cause of your symptoms can help us figure out how to treat your condition best. We will discuss treatment options, including dietary changes, avoidance, lifestyle management, supplements, medication, immunotherapy (“allergy shots”), or low-dose antigen therapy if appropriate. You will receive a personalized care plan, including strategies to control your symptoms and prevent further progression.
Insurance Coverage
Most major insurance plans typically cover allergy scratch testing and immunotherapy (allergy therapy). Coverage for allergy blood testing and food sensitivities varies.
Harmony in Health: Your Primary Care and Wellness Experts
For over a decade, Harmony in Health has provided primary care and wellness services to the Northern Virginia area. Led by NP Jessica Hardy, MSN – BC, our dedicated care team has supported thousands of patients to live happier, healthier lives- and is ready to help you.
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