For many Texans, springtime isn’t all wildflower blooms and walks in the park. It’s also about navigating through the discomfort of allergy symptoms. If over-the-counter medications and home remedies aren’t providing the relief you need, it may be time to consider allergy testing.
Let’s break down what it means to get allergy tested so you can get to the source of your symptoms and find relief this spring.
Understanding Allergy Testing: The process begins with a consultation with a board-certified Allergist, who will take a thorough medical history and discuss your symptoms and triggers. Based on their findings, your allergist will recommend one or more allergy-testing methods to pinpoint your allergies accurately.
Allergy Testing in 1 – 2 – 3:
1. Skin Prick Test:
- During a skin prick test, small amounts of common allergens are pricked or scratched into the skin, usually on the forearm or back.
- If you’re allergic to a particular substance, you’ll develop a small, raised bump or redness at the test site within 15 to 20 minutes.
- Skin prick tests are quick, nearly painless and provide fast results.
2. Intradermal Test:
- Intradermal testing involves injecting a small amount of allergen solution under the skin with a needle. This test is more sensitive than the skin prick test and may be used when skin prick results are inconclusive or when testing for specific allergens such as insect venom or medications.
3. Blood Test:
- Blood tests measure the levels of allergy antibodies in the blood. These tests are used if you have a skin condition that could interfere with the other testing options or if testing is otherwise impractical for you.
Ready to take control of your allergies this spring? Schedule an appointment with an Allergist at AENT today!
