allergies and intolerances
Do you suffer from recurring symptoms such as digestive problems, skin irritations or breathing difficulties and don't know why? It could be due to an allergy or food intolerance.
By the way: Intolerance and intolerance mean the same thing - both terms describe the body's difficulty in processing certain foods correctly. Our comprehensive tests will help you find the cause and pave the way to a symptom-free life.
The best source for further information on allergies is the German Allergy and Asthma Association .
What are allergies?
Allergies are overreactions of the immune system to substances that are actually harmless, so-called allergens. These can be found in food, pollen, animal hair and much more. Your body mistakenly recognizes these substances as a threat and reacts with symptoms such as sneezing, itching, skin rashes, breathing difficulties or, in rare cases, even dangerous allergic shocks.
Common allergens:
- pollen
- dust mites
- animal hair
- Foods such as peanuts, milk or eggs
What are food intolerances?
In contrast to allergies, intolerances are conditions in which the body has difficulty processing certain substances. The immune system is not involved here, but rather enzymes that are necessary to break down certain foods are often missing. The symptoms often appear with a delay and usually manifest themselves in digestive problems such as flatulence, diarrhea or nausea.
Typical food intolerances:
- lactose intolerance
- fructose intolerance
- histamine intolerance
The difference between allergies and intolerances
While an allergy activates the immune system and causes immediate symptoms, an intolerance is a reaction to the lack of availability of enzymes or other metabolic processes in the body. Allergies can be potentially life-threatening, intolerances are usually not dangerous, but are nevertheless very unpleasant and significantly impair the quality of life.
Allergies:
- Involvement of the immune system: In a food allergy, the immune system mistakenly reacts to a harmless food as a threat and releases antibodies to fight the supposed allergen. This can lead to an immediate reaction.
- Rapid symptoms: Symptoms usually appear within minutes to hours after consumption and can cause skin rashes, difficulty breathing, swelling, gastrointestinal problems or even life-threatening reactions such as anaphylactic shock.
- Small amounts are enough: Even a very small amount of the allergen can cause a strong reaction.
Intolerances:
- No immune reaction: An intolerance is not triggered by the immune system, but occurs because the body cannot properly digest or process certain components of food. The necessary enzymes are often missing.
- Delayed symptoms: Symptoms often appear delayed, sometimes hours after consumption, and usually affect the digestive system (bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain). They are unpleasant but rarely dangerous.
- Quantity-dependent: Symptoms often only appear when a large amount of the food has been consumed.
Why should I do an allergy and intolerance test?
Many people suffer from unclear symptoms for years without knowing that allergies or intolerances could be the cause. A targeted test brings clarity and helps you to identify and avoid the triggers.
- Targeted treatment : With a clear test result, you can specifically avoid the triggers and alleviate your symptoms.
- Improve your quality of life : Find out which foods or environmental factors are harming you so you can live a carefree life again.
- Avoid dangerous reactions : Especially in the case of allergies, quick action can be life-saving, especially in severe reactions such as anaphylactic shock.
Our tests: FOX & ALEX technology
Our tests are based on the latest FOX & ALEX technology and offer you a reliable and comprehensive analysis of your allergies and intolerances. We measure specific IgE and IgG antibodies to determine whether and how strongly your body reacts to certain substances.
Your advantages with us
Reliable results:
All tests are analyzed in certified laboratories to ensure maximum reliability.
Quick and easy:
We will send you the test kit and you will take a sample with a simple prick of your finger.
Digital result:
Your results are visible and easy to understand at any time via our platform.
Take the first step now
Find out whether allergies or intolerances are causing your symptoms and receive targeted measures to improve your quality of life.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about allergies and intolerances
What is the difference between an allergy and an intolerance?
What is the difference between an allergy and an intolerance?
An allergy is a reaction of the immune system to certain substances, while an intolerance usually affects the digestive tract and the immune system is not involved.
How can I tell if I have an allergy?
How can I tell if I have an allergy?
An allergy test, performed via blood or skin, can help diagnose allergies to certain substances. A visit to the doctor is crucial.
What symptoms occur with an allergy or intolerance?
What symptoms occur with an allergy or intolerance?
Allergies can cause skin rashes, itching, breathing difficulties or swelling. Intolerances often manifest themselves through gastrointestinal complaints such as flatulence or diarrhea.
Can intolerances be cured?
Can intolerances be cured?
Intolerances such as lactose intolerance are generally not curable, but can be well controlled through an adapted diet. Allergies can sometimes be treated through hyposensitization.