meliva.ee

Allergy tests

Allergy tests are an important step in diagnosing allergic diseases and planning effective treatment. At our clinic, we offer various allergy tests, such as skin prick tests and blood tests, which help to identify the allergens causing your symptoms. The tests are safe and provide valuable information so we can create a personal treatment plan to help you avoid allergens and relieve your symptoms.

Text reviewed by specialist:

dr Maria Mikkal

Allergist-immunologist

Published

Text updated

When to see a specialist

  • Allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis (hay fever): We identify allergies to pollen, dust mites, animal dander, or mold.
  • Asthma: We help to find the allergens that trigger asthma.
  • Skin rashes: For atopic dermatitis, urticaria (hives), and contact dermatitis, we identify the allergens causing skin reactions.
  • Food allergies and intolerances: We determine which foods are causing allergic reactions. We also test for lactose and gluten intolerance.
  • Insect sting allergies: We diagnose allergies to bee or wasp venom.
  • Unexplained allergic reactions: When the cause of the symptoms is unclear.
  • Planning for allergen-specific immunotherapy (allergy shots): The tests help to select the right allergens for treatment.

Common symptoms

  • Difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing

    Which may indicate asthma.

  • Family history of allergies

    If your close relatives have had allergies.

  • Persistent runny nose, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes

    Especially if they occur at a certain time of year or after contact with allergens.

  • Skin rash or skin changes

    Unusual rash, redness, itching, or blisters on the skin, especially if they occur after travel, insect bites, or with other symptoms of illness.

How to prepare for your appointment

  • If possible, avoid taking allergy tablets (antihistamines, e.g., Zyrtec, Claritin) for 7 days before the test. Nasal sprays and eye drops can be used and do not need to be stopped.
  • Inform the doctor about all medications you are taking.
  • For skin prick tests, the skin must be healthy and free of rashes.
  • Think about any questions you may have about the tests and ask our staff before the procedure.
  • Please note that skin tests and spirometry take time, so the visit may last longer than the scheduled booking time.

What to expect during your appointment

Discussion

We will ask you about your health problems, medical history, and symptoms.

Test selection

Together with you, we will choose the appropriate type of allergy test (skin prick test or blood test) based on your symptoms and suspected allergens.

Skin prick test

We will place a small drop of an allergen extract on the skin of your forearm and make a tiny prick through the drop. We will assess the reaction (redness, swelling) after 15-20 minutes.

Blood test

We will take a sample of your venous blood, which will be sent to a laboratory to measure specific IgE antibodies to various allergens.

Analysis of results

We will analyze the test results and explain which allergens are causing your symptoms.

Creating a treatment plan

After making a diagnosis, we will create an individual treatment plan for you, which may include allergen avoidance, medications, or allergen-specific immunotherapy.

Counseling

We will advise you on the nature of allergies, treatment, and preventive measures.

Follow-up

If necessary, we will schedule a follow-up appointment to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.

Specialists providing this service

Payment & Appointment Info

Prices

Tallinn

Special care
Service Price
Skin prick test – 1 allergen or control substance The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. 8.50 €

Everywhere else in Estonia

Special care
Service Price
Skin prick test – 1 allergen or control substance The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. 8.50 €
Payment methods

Meliva Health Insurance covers this service under Preventive Care coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.

Referral

An appointment with a specialist is required first to assess whether the service is suitable or necessary.

Who is this appointment for?

Allergy tests are for adults and children who have symptoms or a suspicion of allergic diseases.

A referral is usually made by a family doctor or an allergist-immunologist.

Allergy tests are safe, but skin prick tests may cause mild itching and redness.

Certain health conditions or medications can affect the test results.

The service does not replace emergency medical intervention for acute and life-threatening allergic reactions.

Clinics offering this service

Frequently Asked Questions

What are allergy tests?

Allergy tests are diagnostic procedures, such as skin prick tests or blood tests, that help to identify the allergens causing allergic reactions in your body.

What is the difference between a skin prick test and a blood test?

A skin prick test is quick and provides immediate results, while a blood test measures specific IgE antibodies in the blood and is also suitable when skin prick tests are contraindicated.

Are allergy tests painful?

Skin prick tests can cause a slight pricking sensation and itching. A blood test involves a standard blood draw.

What do allergy tests show?

Allergy tests show which allergens (e.g., pollen, dust mites, foods) your body is sensitized to, which may be causing your allergic symptoms.

Do I need a referral for allergy tests?

Yes, a referral from a doctor is usually required for allergy tests, as they are medical procedures that a doctor decides are necessary.