What to expect with allergy tests
If you are experiencing allergy symptoms and are tired of not knowing why, consider testing. Specialists in allergy and asthma use these tests to find out how your immune system reacts to different allergens. "The process of detecting allergies helps create an accurate evaluation so you can get the right treatment and alleviate symptoms," says Eben O. Soliz, PA-C, ARC Allergy and Asthma team. "Allergy tests can identify common triggers like pollen, dust mites, mold, animals, certain food allergy concerns, or even reactions to medicine and chemicals."
Types of tests
Skin prick test
This test is one of the most common ways to check for environmental allergies and some food-related reactions. During this test, your doctor or advanced practice clinician (APC) places small drops of different allergens on your skin, usually on your arm or back. Then, the surface of the skin is gently pricked. If you have an allergic reaction, you may see a small, raised bump, like a mosquito bite. The test is quick, and while there may be mild discomfort, it usually goes away fast.
Patch test
This test is often used to find allergies that affect the skin, especially from chemicals or products you encounter. Sticky patches containing small amounts of allergens are placed on your back. You'll wear them for about 48 hours. Your doctor or APC will then check your skin for signs of an allergic reaction after the patches are removed. This test helps identify delayed reactions rather than immediate ones.
Intradermal test
This test can provide more detailed results if a skin prick test is unclear. In this test, a small amount of an allergen is injected just under the skin. This allows your doctor or APC to closely monitor your immune system response. It may cause slightly more discomfort than a skin prick test, but it can be helpful for detecting allergies to things like insect stings or certain medicine.
Blood test
A blood test is another option, especially if you cannot have skin testing. For this test, your doctor or APC will take a small sample of your blood and send it to a lab for an allergy panel. This test measures how your immune system responds to specific allergens. It's useful for diagnosing food allergy concerns and other conditions when skin tests aren't possible.
Oral food challenge
This test is known as the "gold standard" for diagnosing food allergies. The patient eats or inhales a tiny amount of the allergen under close medical supervision by a physician or APC. Medical supervision is required to be able to treat any symptoms that may develop during the challenge.
Learn more about allergy testing.
What should you expect after your allergy test?
After your allergy test, your doctor or APC will review the results with you. "This evaluation helps us identify your specific triggers and create the most effective treatment plan," says Eben. "Based on your results, we may recommend avoiding certain allergens, using medication, or exploring other options to help alleviate symptoms. With an accurate diagnosis, managing environmental allergies and other reactions becomes easier."
About ARC Allergy and Asthma
ARC Allergy and Asthma specialists are physicians and APCs specially trained in diagnosing, treating, and managing allergy and asthma disorders. ARC Allergy and Asthma doctors and APCs can diagnose asthma and your environmental, food, or drug allergies, then develop a personalized treatment plan that may include allergy testing, medication, or allergy drops and shots.
Time to plan for back to school!
Now is the time to schedule a visit with your ARC Allergy and Asthma doctor or APC to get your child's Food Allergy Action Plan and/or Asthma Action Plan forms filled out for the upcoming school year.
Call today to schedule
Eben sees patients of all ages at ARC Far West Medical Tower in Austin, ARC Medical Plaza Specialty in Austin, and ARC Round Rock.
To make an appointment with Eben, call 512-272-4636 (512-ARC-INFO).