Is Allergy testing done in a health food shop worth it?

[Rocky1]

Just trying to consider every angle to do with my pain. Are allergy tests done in health food shops worth it or is it better to go through a doctor?

[teadrinker]

I would discuss this with your doctor. I don't know what your medical conditions are, and I am far from being an expert, but from the reading I've done about chronic pain, allergies don't seem to get mentioned as a cause. I hope this doesn't sound harsh and I'm not intending to put a dampener on things - I know how important it can be to find a reason for the pain. But I would be cautious about going to a health food shop to get an allergy test. Many years ago my mum had tests for a nasty allergy carried out in a hospital where they had the correct medical equipment and staff on stand by in case she had a bad reaction. They wouldn't have that in a shop. Also, I think your GP would be best placed to advise you on the safest and most reliable way of trying things like eliminating certain foods from your diet, if that's what you want to do.

[Rocky1 in reply to teadrinker]

Thanks teadrinker, I know you are right.. I guess I'm clutching at straws, but If I do get it done, I'll go through the doctor.

[teadrinker in reply to Rocky1]

I understand, have done much straw clutching myself, still do sometimes.

[Hidden]

Technically you are correct teadrinker, not many food stuffs cause pain from allergic reaction.

Except that some people are allergic to insect bites. With me its mosquitoes. The area immediately at the bite swells and oozes fluid, the area approx 15cm diameter swells and discolours, often needing hospital treatment. This is very painful and cxan last a few weeks. When the swelling reduces there can be pain in the area for quite a few months afterwards. I'm never far from a can of jungle formula during the summer months. Horseflies have a similar reaction in some people (not been attacked by one so don't know what happens to me). Midge bites are more itchy but they can be painful long after too.

Its all to do with how your immune system reacts to the bite, what is introduced into your blood by the bite, and how and when you treat the bites.