Spirometry, Allergy test

Spirometry studies and allergy tests are essential to evaluate respiratory function and immune system reactions to different substances. Below, I explain in detail what each one consists of, how they are performed, and what they are used for.

📌 Spirometry
Spirometry is a medical test used to measure the capacity and airflow of the lungs. It is mainly used to diagnose and monitor lung diseases.

How is spirometry performed?
1️⃣ Preparation: The patient sits comfortably and a nose clip is placed to prevent breathing through the nose.
2️⃣ Use of the spirometer: The patient is asked to breathe deeply and then exhale forcefully into a mouthpiece connected to a spirometer.
3️⃣ Repeating the process: To obtain accurate results, the test is repeated several times.
4️⃣ Results: The spirometer measures the volume and speed of exhaled air and generates a graph that helps the doctor evaluate lung function.

What is spirometry used for?
✅ Diagnosis of chronic lung diseases, such as:

Asthma
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Pulmonary fibrosis
Chronic bronchitis
✅ Monitoring lung function in patients with pre-existing respiratory diseases.
✅ Evaluation of the effect of respiratory treatments, such as bronchodilators.
✅ Lung function testing in people with a history of smoking or exposure to pollutants.

📌 Important: It is a simple, noninvasive, and quick test, but it requires the patient’s cooperation to obtain accurate measurements.

📌 Allergy Test
Allergy tests help identify substances that can trigger allergic reactions in a person. These reactions occur when the immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances, such as pollen, mites, or certain foods.

Types of allergy tests
1️⃣ Skin prick test (Skin Prick Test or Scratch Test)

Small drops of different allergens are placed on the skin.
A slight prick is made in the skin so that the allergens come into contact with the immune system.
After 15-20 minutes, the skin is observed to see if there is a reaction (redness or swelling), indicating an allergy to that substance.
2️⃣ Intradermal test

Similar to the skin test, but the allergen is injected just under the skin.
It is used to detect more specific allergies, such as allergies to insect bites or medications.
3️⃣ Patch Test

Patches containing different substances are placed on the skin (usually on the back) and left for 48 hours.
It is used to detect contact allergies, such as those caused by metals, perfumes or chemicals.
4️⃣ Blood Test (IgE Specific Blood Test)

A blood sample is taken and tested for the presence of specific IgE antibodies that react to certain allergens.
It is useful when the patient cannot undergo skin tests due to skin problems or the use of certain medications.
What are allergy tests used for?
✅ Identify common allergies, such as:

Pollen (hay fever)
Dust mites
Animal dander
Insect bites
Mold
Foods (milk, eggs, nuts, shellfish)
Medications (penicillin, painkillers)
Latex and chemicals
✅ Help personalize an antihistamine or immunotherapy treatment.
✅ Prevent severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis.

📌 Important: Allergy tests should be interpreted by an allergy specialist, as some reactions may be mild or confused with other conditions.

Conclusion
Both spirometry and allergy testing are key tools for the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory and immunological problems.

🔹 Spirometry: Evaluates lung function and detects respiratory diseases.
🔹 Allergy test: Identifies allergens that can trigger reactions in the body.

💙 Consult a specialist to determine which test is most suitable for you and improve your quality of life. Your health is our priority!