Allergy Testing Specialist

Allergy Testing Q&A

What is allergy testing?

Allergy testing is a way to find your specific allergic triggers. When you have allergy symptoms, like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, or skin rashes, you can often control them with over-the-counter medications like antihistamines. But, you’d probably like to avoid constant antihistamine usage.

Allergy testing allows you to find the root cause of your allergic reaction. With that information, you can start a specific treatment plan to stop the allergic reaction from happening rather than constantly reacting to it.

What can I expect during allergy testing?

There are several types of allergy tests, including:

Skin prick test

A skin prick test, the most common type of allergy test, involves applying small drops of a suspected allergen to tiny punctures on the skin of your arm. That allows the substance to quickly penetrate your skin.

If you’re allergic to a particular substance, the pinprick swells and reddens. Skin prick tests can help identify allergies to mold, pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and some foods.

Intradermal test

An intradermal test involves a local injection of a suspected allergen using a fine needle. After a short wait, an allergen causes a skin reaction at the injection site.

The intradermal test is less common than the skin prick test, but it may be effective in identifying insect venom and drug allergies.

Patch test

In a patch test, a series of small adhesive patches go on your arm or back. Each patch contains a small amount of a suspected allergen. You’ll wear the patches for 48 hours and then return to Castle Hills Family Practice to see if you have any skin reactions.

Patch tests are best suited for suspected skin allergies, such as medications, latex, and cosmetics.

Blood test

Blood tests are an option for situations when skin tests aren’t possible. For example, if you have a severe skin condition that prevents skin testing, you might have blood testing as an alternative.

In a blood test, a few vials of your blood undergo laboratory testing to check for a variety of allergies.

Castle Hills Family Practice provides allergy testing tailored to your health needs and suspected allergens.

What happens after allergy testing?

Most allergy tests provide same-day results. You’ll immediately learn about different treatment options to control your allergy. Some of the most common options include immunotherapy (allergy shots), daily preventive medications, and specific lifestyle changes to avoid allergen exposure.

To learn more about allergy testing and treatment, call Castle Hills Family Practice or click on the provided link now.