A test result on its own is just a number. The real story comes from understanding what that number means for you. When it comes to food allergies, a holistic view is essential for a true diagnosis. Your symptoms, your health history, and your lifestyle are all critical clues. The most accurate food allergy test is one that is used as part of a comprehensive evaluation by a skilled practitioner who is looking for the root cause of your health concerns. This is the core of our functional medicine philosophy at Ascend. We don’t just treat a test result; we treat you. This guide will explain how this integrated approach works and why it’s the most effective way to get clear answers.
Key Takeaways
- Partner with a professional for true accuracy: The most reliable diagnosis comes from an expert who combines validated test results, like from a skin prick or IgE blood test, with your personal health history.
- Stick to scientifically-backed testing methods: Avoid the confusion and unnecessary diet restrictions caused by unproven tests, such as at-home IgG kits, and opt for medically recognized options for a clear diagnosis.
- A diagnosis is the first step, not the last: Work with your provider to use your test results to create a sustainable, long-term plan that addresses the root cause of your symptoms and supports your overall health.
What Makes a Food Allergy Test Accurate?
When you’re dealing with symptoms you suspect are tied to food, getting an accurate test result feels like the most important step. But what does "accurate" really mean in the world of food allergy testing? It’s not just about a simple "yes" or "no." The reliability of a food allergy test depends on its ability to correctly identify true allergies while avoiding misleading results that can send you down the wrong path. Understanding a few key concepts—like false positives, sensitivity, and specificity—can help you make sense of your options and work with your practitioner to get a clear diagnosis.
Think of a food allergy test as just one tool in a larger diagnostic toolbox. A result on its own, without context, can be confusing or even unhelpful. That's why at Ascend, our functional medicine approach is so important. We don't just look at a number on a lab report; we look at you. We consider your test results alongside your overall health, your specific symptoms, and your personal history. This comprehensive view is what truly leads to an accurate picture of what’s happening in your body and helps us create a personalized plan that works for you. True accuracy comes from combining solid science with a deep understanding of the individual.
Spotting True vs. False Positives
No test is perfect, and even the most advanced ones can sometimes produce incorrect results. This is where the concepts of false positives and false negatives come in. A false positive happens when a test indicates you have an allergy to a specific food, but you actually don’t. This can lead to unnecessary dietary restrictions and anxiety around food. On the other hand, a false negative is when the test fails to detect an allergy you truly have, leaving you without answers and still dealing with symptoms.
Because of this, an expert’s interpretation is essential. A practitioner can help you understand if a positive result aligns with your symptoms or if it might be a false alarm. They combine test data with your personal health story to distinguish between a true reaction and a test anomaly, ensuring you don't eliminate foods from your diet without a good reason.
Why Medical Supervision Matters
Getting tested under the guidance of a qualified professional is non-negotiable for safety and accuracy. A practitioner does more than just order a test; they create a complete diagnostic picture using your medical history, a physical exam, and a detailed discussion of your symptoms. This context is crucial for interpreting results correctly. For example, the most definitive way to diagnose a food allergy is with an oral food challenge, which is considered the "gold standard" test.
This procedure involves eating a small, measured amount of a potential allergen in a controlled clinical setting to see if a reaction occurs. Because of the risk of a severe allergic reaction, this test must only be performed under strict medical supervision. This is why working with an experienced team is so important. They ensure your testing is not only accurate but also safe.
What Are Sensitivity and Specificity?
When you hear experts discuss test accuracy, they often use the terms "sensitivity" and "specificity." In simple terms, sensitivity refers to a test's ability to correctly identify those who have an allergy. A highly sensitive test is great at catching true allergies, so there are very few false negatives. Specificity is the test's ability to correctly identify those who do not have an allergy. A highly specific test excels at ruling out allergies, meaning it produces very few false positives.
Ideally, a test would be 100% sensitive and 100% specific, but in reality, there's often a trade-off. For example, research on egg allergies shows that tests can be very accurate, but their performance might change depending on factors like whether the egg is raw or cooked. A knowledgeable practitioner understands these nuances and can choose the best test for your specific situation, balancing sensitivity and specificity to get the most reliable diagnosis.
Your Guide to Food Allergy Tests
When you suspect a food allergy is behind your symptoms, getting tested is the first step toward feeling better. But with so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Understanding how each test works can help you and your practitioner decide on the best path forward. From the definitive oral food challenge to simple skin prick tests, each method offers a different piece of the puzzle in identifying your specific triggers.
Oral Food Challenges: The Gold Standard
Think of the oral food challenge as the final word in allergy testing. It’s considered the most accurate way to determine if you have a food allergy because it directly tests your body’s reaction to a specific food. Under strict medical supervision, you’ll eat a small, measured amount of the suspected allergen and be monitored for any reaction. This test is typically done when other results, like from a skin or blood test, are unclear. Because it involves consuming a potential allergen, it must always be performed in a clinical setting equipped to handle any reaction that might occur.
Skin Prick Tests: Quick and Effective
A skin prick test is one of the most common methods for identifying allergies. It’s a straightforward and relatively painless procedure where a tiny drop of a liquid allergen is placed on your skin, usually on your forearm or back. The skin is then gently pricked, allowing the allergen to enter just below the surface. If you’re allergic, a small, raised bump similar to a mosquito bite will appear within 15 to 30 minutes. This quick turnaround makes it a popular and effective tool for getting initial answers about potential allergies to things like peanuts, eggs, and other common triggers.
Blood Tests (IgE): Lab-Based Accuracy
If a skin prick test isn’t an option for you, perhaps due to a skin condition or a medication you’re taking, a blood test is an excellent alternative. This test measures the amount of specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your bloodstream. Your immune system produces these antibodies when it perceives a substance as a threat. A lab will analyze your blood sample to see if you have elevated IgE levels corresponding to certain foods. While it takes longer to get results than a skin test, it’s a highly accurate and reliable method for diagnosis.
At-Home Kits: Convenience vs. Reliability
At-home food sensitivity tests have become popular for their convenience, but it’s crucial to approach them with caution. Most of these kits test for IgG antibodies, not the IgE antibodies linked to true allergies. Experts widely agree that IgG tests are not a reliable indicator of a food allergy, intolerance, or sensitivity. Relying on these results can lead to unnecessary dietary restrictions and nutritional deficiencies without addressing the real root cause of your symptoms. For an accurate diagnosis, it’s always best to work with a qualified healthcare provider who can recommend medically-validated tests.
Which Food Allergy Test Is the Most Accurate?
When you suspect a food allergy is behind your symptoms, finding the right test can feel overwhelming. The truth is, the "most accurate" test often depends on your specific situation and health history. Different tests offer unique insights, and sometimes, a combination of methods provides the clearest picture. Think of it less like a single pass-fail exam and more like gathering clues to solve a puzzle. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each option is the first step toward getting the answers you need. Let's walk through the most common and reliable tests available so you can feel confident in your next steps.
Why Oral Food Challenges Lead the Pack
If there's a "gold standard" for allergy testing, the oral food challenge is it. This test provides the most definitive answer to whether you have a food allergy. Under strict medical supervision, you'll eat small, gradually increasing amounts of the food in question and be monitored for any reaction. It’s a direct way to see how your body actually responds. Because of the potential for a serious allergic reaction, this test is always performed in a clinical setting where a reaction can be safely managed. It's often used when other tests, like skin or blood tests, provide unclear or conflicting results, helping to confirm a diagnosis and avoid unnecessary food restrictions.
When to Choose a Skin Prick Test
A skin prick test is one of the most common methods for identifying allergies, and for good reason. It’s quick, effective, and you get results in about 15 to 20 minutes. During the test, a tiny amount of a suspected allergen is placed on your skin, usually on your forearm or back, and the skin is gently pricked. If you're allergic, a small, raised bump similar to a mosquito bite will appear. While these tests are highly reliable, they aren't foolproof and can sometimes produce false positives. That’s why it’s so important to have an experienced practitioner interpret the results in the context of your overall health history.
The Pros and Cons of Blood Tests
Blood tests are another excellent tool for diagnosing food allergies. This method measures the amount of specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood. Your immune system produces these antibodies when it perceives a certain food as a threat. A simple blood draw is all that's needed, making it a convenient option, especially for people with skin conditions or those who can't stop taking certain medications. However, a positive result doesn't always mean you'll have a reaction when you eat the food. It's crucial to review your results with a healthcare provider who can help you understand what they mean for your diet and lifestyle.
Common Food Allergy Testing Myths, Busted
When you’re dealing with confusing symptoms, it’s tempting to grab the first test that promises answers. But not all food allergy tests are created equal. Let's clear up some common misconceptions so you can find a path to diagnosis that’s both safe and effective.
The Dangers of Unreliable IgG Tests
You’ve probably seen IgG food sensitivity tests advertised online. They claim to identify problematic foods by measuring IgG antibodies in your blood. The problem? These tests have never been scientifically proven to accurately diagnose a food allergy, sensitivity, or intolerance. In fact, having IgG antibodies to a certain food is a normal immune response; it often just means you’ve eaten that food. Following the results of an IgG test can lead you to unnecessarily restrict your diet, creating nutritional gaps and a lot of stress around eating, without ever addressing the true source of your symptoms.
Is It an Allergy or an Intolerance?
The terms "allergy," "intolerance," and "sensitivity" are often used interchangeably, but they describe very different physical reactions. A true food allergy is a serious immune system response that can cause reactions like hives, swelling, and even life-threatening anaphylaxis. A food intolerance, on the other hand, originates in the digestive system. It happens when your body can’t properly break down a certain food, leading to uncomfortable symptoms like gas and bloating. Understanding this distinction is key, as it determines which tests and treatment approaches are right for you.
The Pitfalls of Self-Diagnosis
Relying on unproven tests or online symptom checkers can send you down the wrong path. Making major dietary changes without professional guidance can do more harm than good. Cutting out entire food groups based on a questionable test result can mask the real root cause of your health issues, which could be anything from a gut infection to an autoimmune condition. Instead of guessing, it’s always best to partner with a practitioner who can guide you toward accurate testing and create a personalized plan that truly supports your body’s needs.
Where to Get Reliable Food Allergy Testing
Knowing which food allergy test to get is only half the battle. Where you go for that test is just as important for getting clear, accurate, and actionable results. A test is simply a data point; you need a qualified professional to place that data in the context of your unique health story. They can help you understand what the results mean and create a personalized plan to move forward. Let’s walk through your best options for getting reliable food allergy testing, from comprehensive clinical care to national labs.
Your Local Functional Medicine Clinic
Your best first step is often to partner with a local functional medicine clinic. An experienced practitioner won't just hand you a lab report. Instead, they will conduct a thorough evaluation that includes your health history, a physical exam, and a deep dive into your symptoms and lifestyle. This holistic approach ensures that your test results are interpreted correctly. At Ascend, our functional medicine team uses testing as one tool in a larger diagnostic process to uncover the root cause of your symptoms, leading to a more effective and personalized treatment plan.
National Laboratory Testing Centers
Large, reputable labs like Labcorp and Quest Diagnostics are another reliable option for food allergy testing. Your doctor or functional medicine practitioner will typically order the specific tests you need, such as an IgE blood test, and the lab will handle the sample collection and analysis. Some centers also offer direct-to-consumer options, allowing you to order certain tests yourself. For example, you can test for 17 food allergies through Labcorp OnDemand, which checks for the IgE antibodies your immune system produces in response to specific foods.
Specialized Diagnostic Panels
For a more in-depth look, some clinics offer specialized diagnostic panels that go beyond standard allergy tests. These comprehensive panels can screen for a wide array of food and environmental triggers, providing a broader view of what might be causing your symptoms. This is particularly helpful when you’re dealing with complex or chronic issues. A skilled practitioner can use these detailed results to connect the dots between different conditions we treat and identify underlying patterns that a single test might miss, giving you a much clearer path to feeling better.
A Note on Direct-to-Consumer Kits
While at-home test kits seem convenient, they often lack the accuracy and medical oversight needed for a real diagnosis. Most of these kits test for IgG antibodies, not the IgE antibodies associated with true allergies. Experts agree that at-home IgG tests are not a reliable way to diagnose a food allergy or even an intolerance. An elevated IgG level can simply mean you’ve been exposed to a food, not that you have a problematic reaction to it. Without a professional to interpret the results, you risk making unnecessary dietary changes based on flawed data.
How to Choose the Right Provider
Choosing the right test is only half the battle. The other half is finding the right professional to administer and interpret it. A test result is just a piece of data; its true value comes from a practitioner who can place it in the context of your unique health story. This person will be your partner in creating a plan that actually works for you. When you're looking for answers, the right guide can make all the difference in turning confusion into clarity. So, how do you find a provider you can trust? It comes down to a few key factors: their qualifications, the safety of their practice, and their overall approach to your health. At Ascend, we believe in a comprehensive approach to all our health solutions.
Check for Credentials and Certifications
First things first, let's talk about qualifications. Any lab running your tests should be properly certified. For example, many reliable tests are performed in CLIA-certified labs, which means they meet high federal standards for quality and accuracy. This ensures the technical part of your test is sound. Beyond the lab, look at the credentials of the practitioner you’re working with. Are they experienced in functional medicine or allergy management? Do they have a deep understanding of how to interpret complex test results? A qualified provider will be transparent about their certifications and the labs they partner with, giving you confidence in the entire process.
Prioritize a Safe Testing Environment
Safety should always be a top priority, especially with certain types of allergy testing. For instance, oral food challenges are the most accurate way to diagnose a food allergy, but they must be done in a controlled medical setting. As experts note, these challenges are generally safe, but only when "done by experienced healthcare workers who are careful." This is not something you should ever attempt at home. A professional clinic will have the trained staff and resources to handle any potential reaction, ensuring your test is conducted safely. When you contact a provider, don't hesitate to ask about their safety protocols.
Evaluate Their Experience and Expertise
Finally, look for a provider who sees you as a whole person, not just a test result. The most accurate diagnosis comes from an expert who combines test results with a physical exam and a thorough review of your health history. This holistic view is the cornerstone of functional medicine. A truly experienced practitioner won’t just hand you a list of foods to avoid. Instead, they will help you understand the root cause of your symptoms, explain what the results mean for your body, and work with you to create a personalized, sustainable plan for long-term health and well-being.
What to Expect During Your Test
Knowing what to expect can make your food allergy test feel much less intimidating. While the exact steps vary depending on the test, the process generally follows three stages: preparation, the test itself, and a follow-up to discuss your results. At our clinic, we guide you through every step to ensure you feel comfortable and informed. The goal is to gather clear, accurate information about how your body responds to certain foods so we can create a personalized plan for you. This is a collaborative process, and your comfort and safety are our top priorities.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
Proper preparation is key to getting accurate results. Your provider will give you a specific set of instructions, so be sure to follow them closely. For skin prick tests and oral food challenges, you’ll likely need to stop taking antihistamines for several days beforehand, as they can interfere with the test. It’s also important that you’re feeling well on the day of your appointment; if you have a cold or any other illness, we’ll need to reschedule to ensure the results are valid. For blood tests, the preparation is usually simpler, often just requiring you to be well-hydrated. If you have any questions before your visit, please don't hesitate to contact our office.
The Step-by-Step Testing Process
The testing process itself depends entirely on the method. For a blood test, the process is straightforward: a small sample of blood is drawn from your arm and sent to a lab for analysis. For a skin prick test, a tiny amount of a liquid allergen is placed on your skin, which is then lightly pricked. You’ll then wait about 15 to 20 minutes to see if a raised, itchy bump appears, indicating a reaction. An oral food challenge is the most involved test. It’s done under strict medical supervision, where you’ll eat gradually increasing amounts of a specific food to see if a reaction occurs. Each of our services is designed to be as comfortable and safe as possible.
Understanding Your Results and Next Steps
Getting your results is just the beginning. A positive test doesn't automatically mean you have a clinical allergy, and a negative test doesn't always rule one out. That’s why the most important part of the process is reviewing your results with a qualified practitioner. We’ll sit down with you to interpret the findings in the context of your symptoms and health history. This conversation is where we connect the dots and build a clear path forward. Based on your results, we’ll use our functional medicine approach to develop a personalized nutrition and lifestyle plan that addresses the root cause of your issues and helps you feel your best.
Breaking Down the Costs of Allergy Testing
Let’s talk about one of the most practical parts of getting answers for your health: the cost. Understanding the financial side of food allergy testing can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The price of testing can vary quite a bit depending on the type of test you get, how many allergens are being checked, and where you go for the test. While it might be tempting to look for the cheapest option, investing in a high-quality, accurate test from the start can save you a lot of time, money, and frustration in the long run.
Think of it this way: getting a clear and correct diagnosis is the foundation for your entire treatment plan. An inaccurate test can lead you down the wrong path, causing you to needlessly avoid certain foods or, worse, continue eating something that’s causing inflammation and discomfort. This is why we prioritize accuracy above all else. At Ascend Functional Health, we believe in transparency and helping you understand all aspects of your care, including the costs involved. We’ll work with you to find the right diagnostic path that fits your health needs and your budget, ensuring you feel confident in every step of your journey toward wellness. Our goal is to provide clarity, not confusion, so you can move forward with a solid plan.
Will Insurance Cover Your Test?
This is often the first question people ask, and the answer is: it depends. Insurance coverage for food allergy testing varies widely based on your specific plan and provider. Generally, conventional tests like skin prick tests or IgE blood tests ordered by a doctor are more likely to have some level of coverage. However, more specialized panels offered through functional medicine might not be covered in the same way.
Your best first step is to call your insurance company directly. Ask them about your coverage for "food allergy testing" and be ready to provide specific test names if you have them. It’s also smart to ask about your deductible and any co-pays so you know exactly what to expect. Our team can help provide the information you need to have that conversation with your insurer.
Comparing Costs Between Providers
You’ll find that the price for the same type of allergy test can differ from one place to another. A test performed in a hospital, for example, may cost more than one done at a private lab or a specialized clinic. Some providers may offer bundled tests, like multiple allergen simultaneous tests (MASTs), which can be convenient but also vary in price.
When you’re exploring your options, don’t hesitate to ask for a price list or a detailed quote. A reputable provider will be happy to explain their costs and what is included. This allows you to compare not just the price but the value of the service you’re receiving. A lower upfront cost isn’t always the better deal if it comes with less support or a less comprehensive analysis of your results.
How to Spot Hidden Fees
No one likes financial surprises, especially when it comes to healthcare. Unfortunately, hidden fees can sometimes pop up. The initial price you’re quoted for a test might not include everything, so it’s important to ask clarifying questions. Find out if the cost includes the initial consultation, the lab processing fees, and the follow-up appointment to discuss your results.
Some providers charge these services separately, which can add up quickly. Before you commit to any testing, ask for a complete breakdown of all potential charges. A transparent provider will give you a clear, all-inclusive estimate. This empowers you to make an informed decision and focus on what really matters: getting to the root cause of the health conditions you're facing.
Red Flags: Food Allergy Tests to Avoid
When you're trying to get to the bottom of your symptoms, it’s tempting to grab the first test you see online. But not all food allergy tests are created equal. Some are not only inaccurate but can also lead you down a path of unnecessary food restrictions and continued frustration. Knowing which tests to avoid is just as important as knowing which ones to trust. Let's walk through some of the biggest red flags to watch for so you can invest your time and money wisely.
Why IgG Tests Aren't Reliable
You’ve probably seen at-home food sensitivity tests that measure IgG (Immunoglobulin G) antibodies. The problem is, these tests have never been scientifically proven to accurately identify a food allergy or sensitivity. The presence of IgG antibodies to a certain food simply indicates that you’ve eaten it. It’s a sign of exposure and immune system memory, not a sign of a problem. Major allergy and immunology organizations advise against using these tests for diagnosis. They often generate a long, confusing list of foods to avoid, leading to overly restrictive diets that aren’t based on a true reaction and can even create nutritional gaps.
Steer Clear of Unproven Methods
Beyond IgG testing, other methods like hair analysis, applied kinesiology (muscle testing), and live blood cell analysis are often marketed for identifying food reactions. While these might sound intriguing, they lack scientific evidence to support their use for diagnosing allergies or sensitivities. Most of these alternative food sensitivity tests are not considered reliable because they don't measure a direct and repeatable physiological response to food. A true diagnosis comes from identifying specific immune reactions or through carefully controlled food challenges. Sticking to evidence-based methods ensures you’re making changes based on what’s actually happening inside your body, not on guesswork.
Spotting Misleading Marketing Claims
It’s easy to get pulled in by clever marketing, so here are a few warning signs that a test might not be legitimate. Be cautious of companies that rely heavily on customer testimonials instead of clinical research to support their claims. While personal stories can be compelling, they aren't a substitute for scientific validation. Also, be wary of any test that promises to be a quick fix for a long list of vague symptoms. True healing is a process. Finally, if a test provides results without requiring you to partner with a practitioner for interpretation and guidance, it’s a major red flag.
How to Get the Most Accurate Diagnosis
Getting to the bottom of a potential food allergy isn't about finding one magic test. It’s about building a complete picture of your health. An accurate diagnosis is a process that combines objective data with your unique personal history. Think of it as detective work, where each clue brings you closer to the truth. By taking a thoughtful, comprehensive approach, you can get the clear answers you need to move forward and feel your best. The right strategy involves partnering with a trusted expert, using a combination of tools, and creating a sustainable plan for the future.
Partner with a Functional Medicine Practitioner
If you suspect a food allergy, your first step should be to connect with a professional. Working with a practitioner is the safest and most effective path, especially compared to figuring it out yourself. A functional medicine expert won’t just look at your test results; they’ll listen to your story, review your health history, and consider your lifestyle to understand the full context of your symptoms. This holistic view is essential for distinguishing a true allergy from an intolerance or sensitivity, ensuring your treatment plan addresses the root cause of your issues.
Combine Testing Methods for a Clearer Picture
A reliable diagnosis rarely comes from a single data point. A skilled practitioner will combine several methods to get a clear understanding of your body’s reactions. This often starts with a physical exam and a detailed conversation about your diet, symptoms, and family history. From there, they may recommend specific blood or skin tests. The results are then interpreted alongside your personal health story. This layered approach helps confirm findings and avoid the confusion of false positives, giving you a much more trustworthy result than any single test could provide.
Plan for Long-Term Management and Follow-Up
Receiving a diagnosis is just the beginning. The real goal is to create a long-term plan that helps you thrive. A great healthcare partner will work with you to develop a personalized strategy that goes beyond simply avoiding certain foods. This might include a guided elimination diet, nutritional support, or a plan for carefully reintroducing foods. It’s critical to review your results with a provider before making any major dietary changes. They can provide ongoing support and adjust your plan as your body heals, empowering you to manage your health with confidence. Ready to start? You can contact our team to schedule a consultation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the real difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance? Think of it this way: a food allergy is an immune system issue, while an intolerance is a digestive system issue. A true allergy involves your immune system mistakenly identifying a food as a threat and releasing chemicals like histamine, which cause reactions like hives or swelling. An intolerance, however, happens when your body has trouble digesting a food, often because it lacks a specific enzyme. This leads to symptoms like bloating or gas, which are uncomfortable but not life-threatening.
I see a lot of at-home food sensitivity tests online. Are they accurate? It's best to be very cautious with most at-home kits. The majority of these tests measure IgG antibodies, which have not been scientifically proven to identify food allergies or even sensitivities. The presence of IgG antibodies often just means your body has been exposed to a particular food, which is a normal response. Relying on these results can lead you to cut out perfectly healthy foods for no good reason, without ever getting to the root of your symptoms.
If a blood test says I'm allergic to a food, does that mean I have to stop eating it forever? Not necessarily. A positive blood test shows that your body has created IgE antibodies to a food, a process called sensitization. However, being sensitized doesn't always mean you'll have a physical reaction when you eat it. This is why it's so important to review your results with a practitioner. They will look at the test data alongside your specific symptoms and health history to determine if it's a true clinical allergy that requires you to avoid the food.
Why is an oral food challenge considered the "gold standard" if it sounds so intense? The oral food challenge is considered the most definitive test because it directly answers the question: does eating this food cause a reaction? While skin and blood tests measure your body's potential for a reaction, the oral food challenge confirms it in a real-world scenario. It is an involved process, but its accuracy is unmatched for clearing up confusing results. Most importantly, it is always performed in a controlled clinical setting where a trained team can ensure your safety.
What's the first step I should take if I think I have a food allergy? Your best first step is to schedule a consultation with a qualified practitioner. Trying to diagnose yourself with online symptom checkers or unreliable tests can lead to a lot of confusion and unnecessary dietary restrictions. A professional will start by listening to your health story and understanding your symptoms. This comprehensive approach ensures you get the right testing and a personalized plan that addresses the true cause of your issues.
