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At-home allergy test could ease side effects

Allergies, whether caused by food, pets or environmental issues, are common in the U.S. In fact, more than half (55 percent) of the entire U.S. population has at least one allergy, while a child with two parents with allergies has a 70 percent chance of developing one or more allergies, WebMD reports.

Though some people might just assume they have seasonal allergies based on the runny noses, cough and itchy eyes they develop come spring, getting a clear-cut answer has never been simpler. USA Today reports the FDA recently approved a new kit, MyAllergyTest, to offer people a chance to figure out if they have allergies and what they are allergic to from the comfort of their homes.

As of now, the kit tests for Bermuda grass, cats, cedar, egg whites, house dust mites, milk, mold ragweed, Timothy grass and wheat. After undergoing the test, people can easily figure out what triggers their specific allergy (if they are found to have one) and ways to curb such issues via a secure website that those who purchase the kit can log on to. For example, a person with seasonal allergies might learn that investing in a professional-grade air purifier like the IQAir HealthProPlus could help them breathe better at home during peak pollen season. 

Despite the potential benefits, ImmuneTech, the company that created the kit, is quick to point out the test is meant to expose allergens people may have, rather than replace physicians or allergy specialists.