Allergy Testing Reading Answers: IELTS Reading Practice Test with Answers

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Updated on Mar 30, 2025, 19:10

The IELTS Reading section tests your ability to understand and interpret different types of texts within a 60-minute time limit. You will answer 40 questions based on three passages, assessing skills such as skimming, scanning, and detailed reading. The test includes various question types, including locating information, matching features, and summary completion.
 

In the Allergy Testing Reading answer passage, you will explore various methods used to identify allergens that trigger reactions in individuals. This topic is pertinent to understanding how medical professionals diagnose and manage allergic conditions.​
 

Let’s look at the Allergy Testing reading answer passage, questions, and answers with explanations.

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1. Allergy Testing Reading Answer Passage

You should spend approximately 20 minutes answering Questions 1 – 14 based on the Allergy Testing Reading Answer Passage below.

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2. Allergy Testing Reading Answers with Sample Questions

Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about the Allergy Testing.

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3. Check Out Top 40+ IELTS Reading Practice Test Questions with Answers

Below are some top free IELTS Reading Practice test online questions with detailed answers to enhance your IELTS preparation online. 

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1.

Allergy Testing Reading Answer Passage

General Information

  • Read Instructions: Understand each question before answering.
  • Manage Time: Spend about 20 minutes per passage.
  • Skim and Scan: Quickly get the main idea and find specific information.
  • Highlight Key Info: Underline essential words or phrases.
  • Answer All Questions: Attempt every question; no penalty for wrong answers.
  • Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and keep your attention on the task.
  • Check Spelling: Ensure correct spelling and grammar.
  • Transfer Answers Clearly: Write answers neatly on the answer sheet.
  • Don’t Dwell: Move on if stuck and return later.
  • Review: If time allows, review your answers.

 

 

Allergy Testing Reading Answer Passage

 

Paragraph A. Numerous different allergens can cause allergic reactions when they are inhaled, ingested, or come into contact with the body. The proteins present in plants, mould, food, venom, animal skin, and medications are some of the most prevalent allergens. Allergy symptoms can range from minor annoyances like itching, wheezing, and coughing to potentially fatal disorders affecting the digestive and respiratory systems. Food, medications, and stinging insects are more likely to cause severe allergic reactions. After the initial exposure, a person develops an allergy to a certain substance. However, in rare instances, even minute quantities of a material, such as peanuts or shellfish in breast milk, can result in an allergic reaction when exposed later.

 

Paragraph B. There are numerous allergy tests available to identify particular compounds that cause allergic reactions in people. Immunologists, usually referred to as allergists, are trained to choose the tests that are both relevant and safe based on the suspected allergies. Immunologists can frequently determine which items trigger reactions in allergy patients by employing allergen extracts, which are tiny amounts of frequently irritating allergens (typically in the form of pure liquid drops).

 

Paragraph C. The skin-prick test is one of the most popular kinds of environmental allergy tests. This method is applying tiny drops of a suspected allergen spaced one to two inches apart to the skin of the forearm. A needle is then used to puncture the skin at the locations of each drop after the droplets have been applied to the arm. (Though practically painless, this test is frequently performed on children's upper backs to shield them from the needle.) Immunoglobulin E (IgE), an allergic antibody, will activate a specific cell type called a mast cell if an allergy is present. Mast cells release mediators, which are substances that induce inflammation and irritation. Histamine serves as a mediator most frequently. The controlled hive, characterised as a wheal and flare, is brought on by histamine. The flare is the redness that emanates from the white wheal, which is the little elevated surface. Uncontrolled allergic reactions can cause wheals and flares to grow significantly and cover the entire body. Skin test results are often available in 20 to 30 minutes, and the reaction typically subsides in a few hours.

 

Paragraph D. The intradermal allergy test is a different examination that is quite comparable to the skin-prick examination. This entails using a syringe to inject the allergen sample under the skin. The riskier intradermal test is often reserved for use if the allergy still exists even after a skin prick test is negative. These tests are not recommended for people who have had anaphylactic reactions, which are severe allergic reactions. When allergens are injected into the bloodstream, these allergy patients may become hypersensitive to even minute levels of the allergens. An allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis can be fatal and affects the entire body. Hives that spread to the lips and throat might get bad enough to restrict the airway. When enough histamine is released, the blood vessels widen and fluid leaks into the tissues, resulting in anaphylactic shock. Heart failure may arise as a result of the decreased blood volume.

 

Paragraph E. Over 400 distinct sensitivities, including harmful food and environmental allergens, can be safely isolated using a blood test. Using a blood sample, the Radio Allergo Sorbent Test (RAST) quantifies particular IgE antibodies. Blood generally contains extremely minute quantities of IgE, which is produced as a defence mechanism when an invader is detected. Each probable allergy is tested separately, and the IgE responses are rated from 0 to 6. For instance, if a person is allergic to dogs, their canine serum IgE level will be high. When patients cannot stop taking certain medications, such as antidepressants or antihistamines, for even a brief period of time, or when patients have pre-existing skin issues, the RAST is employed. (Patients must cease using antihistamines a few days before undergoing a skin allergy test because the medicine may affect the results.) The RAST is a more pricey test that takes longer to produce findings.

 

Paragraph F. There are various alternative allergy tests. However, the Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology says that many of them are unreliable. A technique called applied kinesiology examines how muscle strength declines when potential allergens are present. Provocation and neutralisation testing involves injecting various concentrations of food allergens into test subjects' skin in an effort to identify the minimal dose required to alleviate symptoms. Similar tests called sublingual provocation and neutralisation, inject allergens just below the tongue. In a cytotoxicity test, allergens are placed on a slide next to blood samples of a subject, and the subject is then observed to see how their blood cells respond.

 

Paragraph G. A physician can assist a patient in creating a treatment plan with the aim of reducing or eradicating allergy symptoms after employing a reliable diagnostic method to identify the source of an allergic reaction. In contrast to people with food allergies, those who are allergic to furry animals, pollen, or plants are given modest medications or instructions on how to limit their reactions through simple lifestyle modifications. People with allergies who are at risk for anaphylactic responses are taught how to use life-saving strategies, including carrying epinephrine and donning medical alert wristbands. When people are aware of their allergies, their quality of life can start to improve.

 

Let’s explore the questions and answers of the Allergy Testing Reading answer passage.

2.

Allergy Testing Reading Answers with Sample Questions

Have you read the passage? Now, take the test and find Allergy Testing Reading answers! Try to answer these questions by yourself before you sneak a peek at the answers given below.

Questions and Answers 1-4
  • The passage describes three different types of Allergy tests.
  • Which of the characteristics below belong to which type of test? In boxes 1-4 on your answer sheet

 

1) if it is a characteristic of the skin-prick test.

2) if it is a characteristic of the intradermal test.

3) if it is a characteristic of the blood test. 

 

A. A needle is used to inject a material beneath the skin.

B. The back of the patient is frequently used.

C. Patients who have skin issues should do it.

D. Patients who have previously experienced life-threatening allergic reactions should avoid it.
 

Allergy Testing  Reading Answers with Explanations (1-4)

 

Type of question: Matching Features

 

In this task, you are required to match a list of opinions or deeds with the correct individuals from a provided list. This type of question tests your ability to identify relationships and connections between people and their contributions or viewpoints, as mentioned in the text.

 

How to best answer: 

 

  • Carefully read the instructions to know what criteria or basis you're using for matching.
  • Identify the key features or attributes of each item on the list.
  • Use the elimination process to narrow down the options for the remaining matches.
  • Review all matches to ensure they are coherent and aligned with the given criteria.
  • Look for patterns or relationships between items to improve the efficiency of making correct matches.
  • Finalise your answers.
     
1. B - The back of the patient is frequently used.

 

Reference: From Paragraph D: “The intradermal allergy test is a different examination that is quite comparable to the skin-prick examination. This entails using a syringe to inject the allergen sample under the skin. The riskier intradermal test is often reserved for use if the allergy still exists even after a skin prick test is negative”

 

Explanation: This line indicates that the intradermal test involves injecting a sample of the allergen beneath the skin using a syringe. This distinguishes it from the skin-prick and blood tests, making it the correct answer.

 

2. A - A needle is used to inject a material beneath the skin.

 

Reference: From Paragraph C: “A needle is then used to puncture the skin at the locations of each drop after the droplets have been applied to the arm. (Though practically painless, this test is frequently performed on children's upper backs to shield them from the needle.)”

 

Explanation: This indicates that the skin-prick test is often conducted on the back, particularly for children, making it a defining characteristic of this test.
 

3. C - Patients who have skin issues should do it.

 

Reference: From Paragraph E: “Over 400 distinct sensitivities, including harmful food and environmental allergens, can be safely isolated using a blood test. Using a blood sample, the Radio Allergo Sorbent Test (RAST) quantifies particular IgE antibodies. Blood generally contains extremely minute quantities of IgE, which is produced as a defence mechanism when an invader is detected. Each probable allergy is tested separately, and the IgE responses are rated from 0 to 6. For instance, if a person is allergic to dogs, their canine serum IgE level will be high. When patients cannot stop taking certain medications, such as antidepressants or antihistamines for even a brief period of time, or when patients have pre-existing skin issues, the RAST is employed. The RAST is a more pricey test that takes longer to produce findings.”

 

Explanation:  This shows that the blood test is suitable for individuals with skin conditions, as it does not require direct skin exposure to allergens.

 

4. B - The back of the patient is frequently used.

 

Reference: From Paragraph D: “The intradermal allergy test is a different examination that is quite comparable to the skin-prick examination. This entails using a syringe to inject the allergen sample under the skin. The riskier intradermal test is often reserved for use if the allergy still exists even after a skin prick test is negative. These tests are not recommended for people who have had anaphylactic reactions, which are severe allergic reactions.”

 

Explanation: This confirms that the intradermal test should be avoided by individuals who have experienced life-threatening allergic reactions due to the higher risk involved.

 

To build a strong word bank that can help you approach the Reading section with clarity and confidence, go through the list of IELTS Reading Vocabulary!

Questions and Answers 5-7
  • This reading passage has seven paragraphs, A–G.
  • Which paragraph contains the following information?
  • Write the correct letter, A-G as your answer to each question.
Note: You may use any letter more than once.

 

5. Results arrive within half an hour.

6. Tests can cause red and white wheals or bumps.

7. An expensive test.
 

Allergy Testing  Reading Answers With Explanations (5-7)
 

Type of question: Locating Information

 

In this task, you are required to find specific details, facts, or information within the passage. These questions typically ask you to identify where particular information is located in the text.
 

How to best answer: 

 

  • Understand what specific information you need to find (e.g., a word, phrase, or detail).
  • Quickly skim through the relevant paragraph or section to locate keywords related to the question.
  • Ensure the answer fits grammatically and contextually into the sentence or passage.
  • Check for synonyms or keywords to locate the information
  • Finalise your answers.

 

5. A

 

Reference: From Paragraph C: “Uncontrolled allergic reactions can cause wheals and flares to grow significantly and cover the entire body. Skin test results are often available in 20 to 30 minutes, and the reaction typically subsides in a few hours.”

 

Explanation: This line indicates that skin test results can be obtained within 20 to 30 minutes, confirming that the process is quick. Since the question asks about results arriving within half an hour, this makes it the correct answer.
 

6. A

 

Reference: From Paragraph E: “The controlled hive characterized as a wheal and flare is brought on by histamine. The flare is the redness that emanates from the white wheal, which is the little elevated surface. Uncontrolled allergic reactions can cause wheals and flares to grow significantly and cover the entire body.”

 

Explanation: This line describes how histamine causes a reaction known as a wheal and flare, leading to red and white bumps on the skin. Since the question refers to the formation of these wheals, this makes it the correct answer.

 

7. C

 

Reference: From Paragraph E: “The RAST is a more pricey test that takes longer to produce findings.”

 

Explanation: This line states that the RAST test is expensive and takes time to deliver results. Since the question asks for a test that is costly, this confirms that the RAST test is the correct answer.

 

To build a strong word bank that can help you approach the Reading section with clarity and confidence, go through the IELTS Academic Reading 2025!

Questions and Answers 8-14
  • Complete the summary of the reading passage below.
  • Choose your answers from the box below, and write them in boxes 8-14 on your Answer Sheet.
Note: There are more words than spaces so you will not use them all.

 

Allergy Testing  Reading Answers

 

Touching, inhaling, or (8) __________ specific compounds termed (9) ___________ may cause allergic responses. There are two possible (10) _________ allergic reactions: coughing and itching. Certain food allergies, bug stings, and other (11) _________ might cause more severe reactions. A strong allergic reaction is referred to as (12) _________ Loss of blood volume and cardiac failure may arise from it. Numerous tests can be used by medical professionals to (13) __________ the cause of an allergy. Taking medication or (14) ________ that triggers. the allergic reaction may be used as treatment.
 

Allergy Testing  Reading Answers With Explanations (8-14)

 

Type of question: Summary completion

Under this task, you will be given a summary with incomplete sentences. However, you will not be given any list of words/phrases to choose the missing information. You must refer to the main passage to fill in the missing information. 

 

How to best answer: 

 

  • Read the summary to understand what information it’s missing.
  • Identify keywords and locate them in the main passage to find missing words. 
  • Review the context of the words you’ve chosen to match the summary.
  • Finalise your answers.

 

8. Eating

 

Reference: From Paragraph A: “Numerous different allergens can cause allergic reactions when they are inhaled, ingested, or come into contact with the body. The proteins present in plants, mould, food, venom, animal skin, and medications are some of the most prevalent allergens.”

 

Explanation: This line highlights that allergic reactions can be triggered by various means, including ingestion. Since "ingested" means consuming or eating, "EATING" is the correct answer.
 

9. Allergens

 

Reference: From Paragraph A: “Numerous different allergens can cause allergic reactions when they are inhaled, ingested, or come into contact with the body.”

 

Explanation: This line explicitly states that allergens are substances that can cause allergic reactions when they enter the body in different ways. Therefore, "ALLERGENS" is the correct answer.

 

10. Signs

 

Reference: From Paragraph A: “The proteins present in plants, mould, food, venom, animal skin, and medications are some of the most prevalent allergens. Allergy symptoms can range from minor annoyances like itching, wheezing, and coughing to potentially fatal disorders affecting the digestive and respiratory systems.”

 

Explanation: This line lists coughing and itching as examples of allergy symptoms. Since symptoms indicate signs of an allergic reaction, "SIGNS" is the correct answer.
 

11. Medicines

 

Reference: From Paragraph A: “Food, medicines, and stinging insects are more likely to cause severe allergic reactions.”

 

Explanation: This line mentions that medicines, along with food and insect stings, are common causes of severe allergic reactions. Therefore, "MEDICINES" is the correct answer.

 

12. Anaphylaxis

 

Reference: From Paragraph D: “An allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis can be fatal and affects the entire body.”

 

Explanation: This line defines anaphylaxis as a severe allergic reaction that impacts the whole body. Since the question asks for a term describing a strong allergic reaction, "ANAPHYLAXIS" is the correct answer.

 

13. Identify

 

Reference: From Paragraph G: “A physician can assist a patient in creating a treatment plan with the aim of reducing or eradicating allergy symptoms after employing a reliable diagnostic method to identify the source of an allergic reaction.”

 

Explanation: This line explains that doctors use diagnostic methods to determine the cause of an allergic reaction. Since "identify" means to find out or determine, "IDENTIFY" is the correct answer.

 

14. Avoiding

 

Reference: From Paragraph G: “ In contrast to people with food allergies, those who are allergic to furry animals, pollen, or plants are given modest medications or instructions on how to limit their reactions through simple lifestyle modifications.”

 

Explanation: This line suggests that people with allergies can manage symptoms by modifying their lifestyle, which often involves avoiding allergens. Thus, "AVOIDING" is the correct answer.

 

To build a strong word bank that can help you approach the Reading section with clarity and confidence, go through the IELTS Academic Reading 2025!
3.

Check Out Top 40+ IELTS Reading Practice Test Questions with Answers

Below are some top 40+ free IELTS Reading Practice test online questions with detailed answers to enhance your IELTS preparation online. We have provided sample passages for each test type for your reference.
 

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FAQs

Q. What are common keywords in Allergy Testing reading passage?

Ans. Common keywords in an Allergy Testing reading passage may include terms like "immune system," "allergen," "reaction," "diagnosis," "skin prick test," "blood test," "symptoms," "sensitivity," and "treatment." Synonyms and paraphrased versions of these words are also important to identify.

Q. How to answer matching headings questions in Allergy Testing reading passage?

Ans. Read the headings carefully and identify their main idea. Skim each paragraph to find the central theme and match it with the correct heading. Look for synonyms and paraphrased keywords instead of exact matches. Eliminate options that do not fit logically.

Q. What is a challenging aspect of Allergy Testing reading passage?

Ans. The Allergy Testing passage may have complex scientific terminology, making it difficult to understand. Paraphrased information and implied meanings can also be tricky. Additionally, distinguishing between similar concepts like "sensitivity" and "reaction" requires careful reading.

Q. Are Allergy Testing passages part of the IELTS Academic or General Reading?

Ans. Allergy Testing passages are more likely to appear in the IELTS Academic Reading test because they involve scientific content and research-based information. The General Training Reading test usually focuses on everyday topics and workplace-related content.

Q. Are spelling mistakes penalised for the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. Yes, spelling mistakes are penalised in the IELTS Reading test. If you spell a word incorrectly, your answer will be marked wrong, even if the meaning is correct. Always double-check your spelling, especially for names, numbers, and key terms.

Q. Is grammar necessary for the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. Grammar is not directly assessed in the IELTS Reading test, but incorrect grammar in your answers can lead to a wrong response. Pay attention to singular/plural forms and verb tenses when completing sentence completion or summary-type questions.

Q. What are some common misconceptions about the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. Many test-takers believe they must understand every word, but skimming and scanning are more important. Another misconception is that answers appear in order, but some question types require finding information from different parts of the passage.

Q. How can I stay calm and focused during the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. Practice time management and avoid spending too much time on a single question. If stuck, move on and return later. Take deep breaths, stay positive, and use skimming and scanning techniques to locate answers efficiently.

Q. What is the band score range for the IELTS Reading module?

Ans. The IELTS Reading module is scored on a band scale from 0 to 9. The score is based on the number of correct answers, with 40 questions in total. The Academic and General Training modules have different score conversion charts.

Q. Can I skip the IELTS Reading Module for my IELTS exam?

Ans. No, the IELTS Reading module is a mandatory section of the test. Whether you take the Academic or General Training version, you must complete the reading section to receive an overall IELTS band score.

Q. Does the IELTS Reading module have more weightage?

Ans. No, all four IELTS modules—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—are equally weighted. Each section contributes 25% to your overall IELTS band score, so performing well in the Reading section is just as important as in the others.