What is private allergy testing?
In the UK we have arrived at a time where health has become a personal responsibility. As the NHS faces challenges in funding and resources, individuals are increasingly seeking proactive measures to understand and manage their health. This shift toward the private sector not only provides a viable alternative, but also offers essential back-up and follow-on support often lacking in the public healthcare system.
The NHS Dilemma
Allergies and food intolerances now affect around half (if not more) of the British population. With figures steadily rising, we now face a crisis within the NHS which is struggling to cope with this increased demand. Laboratory testing inevitably comes at a cost, which the public purse and healthcare system is unable to provide at such levels. For any local NHS authorities who still provide this service (and many don’t), the waiting lists are so overwhelmed that testing has become nigh on impossible for many. Limited funding and resources leave many individuals with unaddressed health concerns, prompting them to explore private solutions.
Private Allergy Testing: A Viable Alternative
Private allergy testing therefore emerges as a solution to bridge the gap left by the constraints of the NHS. While lab testing can be perceived as (and indeed is) expensive, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial cost. Private testing allows individuals to take control of their health, providing quick and reliable answers to their health problems.
ELISA Blood Tests: A modern solution for a modern-day problem
Among the various private testing methods available, ELISA blood tests stand out as one of the most successful in identifying food triggers.
The following information is from the Cleveland Clinic:
ELISA is a common laboratory testing technique which detects and counts certain antibodies, antigens, proteins and hormones in bodily fluid samples. These include blood, plasma, urine and saliva
“ELISA” stands for “enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.”
Researchers consider ELISA to be the gold standard of immunoassays. Tests which use ELISA can help diagnose a wide range of conditions, from bacterial and viral infections (like Lyme disease and HIV) to endocrine conditions, like thyroid disease. It is also commonly used to test food and environmental allergies, and a host of other infections and health conditions.
Several medical tests involve the use of the ELISA technique. But it’s important to note that your laboratory test results won’t say “ELISA test.” This is because ELISA is a laboratory ‘technique’, and there are countless variations of the tests which use it.
Instead, results come in an easy-to-follow traffic light system categorised into red, amber and green. As this would suggest, red indicates high elevated levels of antibodies, amber less so, but still reactive and green indicates no reactivity to the tested allergen. This simple system empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their diets, avoiding or moderating their intake of the identified trigger foods.
Does TESTme use the ELISA method?
Yes, we have a laboratory partner who specialises in this technique for food and environmental testing, and they currently offer the largest array of allergens on the market today for both full-blown allergy and intolerance results.
Does TESTme offer follow on support after testing?
Yes, one of the benefits of private testing is the added security of knowing you will be supported. Upon ordering any allergy or intolerance kit, you will automatically be sent a complimentary copy of the TESTme handbook, a digital and interactive guide to better health.
This has been written with intolerances in mind, encouraging you to make good choices and decisions as you go about your daily life. It will serve as a constant reference tool and is your unparalleled support system. When it comes to finding a trustworthy and no nonsense reference tool after receiving your intolerance results, there’s simply nothing else out there to rival it. With every page, it empowers you to take control, by dealing with the underlying causes, rather than just treating the symptom. It offers insights and achievable lifestyle changes to keep you motivated on your journey to wellness.
Our handbook is your constant companion, easily accessible whenever you need it, not only advising on dietary choices, but helping you confront all factors and elements for your symptoms.
There is no other company in the UK offering this form of resource. Most will offer a 30 minute call to discuss results, but this very often leaves people feeling confused and out of their depth, receiving information which can be overwhelming and difficult to understand. We address this problem by giving you a permanent support package which is digital, interactive and address all symptoms head on with straight forward and manageable advice.
Is Private Allergy Testing Worth the Investment?
The question of whether private allergy testing is worth the financial investment is a common concern. The answer lies in the reliability and expediency it offers. Private testing not only provides quick answers but also tangible solutions to health problems. For individuals struggling with ongoing, chronic symptoms or unexplained discomfort, the ability to identify and address specific triggers becomes an important step toward reclaiming their health and well-being.
Moreover, the speed and efficiency of private testing allows individuals to bypass the lengthy waiting times often associated with NHS services. This quick turnaround can be crucial, especially when symptoms are debilitating and impacting work and social environments.
