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Allergy Skin Testing May Be Able to Tell You More Than You Think

Allergy Skin Testing May Be Able to Tell You More Than You Think

If you’re concerned that you have an allergy of some kind then you know how frustrating it can be to know something’s wrong but to not know exactly what it is. That’s where Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group comes in. If you suspect you have allergies, then you should call us right away at 805-658-9500. Not only do we have the latest diagnostic options to determine exactly what the problem is, we can also find the right treatment for your needs.

Your answer will likely start with an allergy skin test

Are you shocked to learn that allergy skin testing has been used since the 1860s? While medical science has come a long way since then, it’s still the best option when you want a quick, accurate, non-invasive answer about allergies. However, there is one requirement – it must be interpreted by a professional. Without the right training and experience, a typical physician may not be able to diagnose the nuances.

Allergy skin tests can test for many different conditions

We find that many people think that allergy skin tests only work for a few things. The reality is that the list of allergies it can diagnose is likely longer than you think. For example, this type of allergy test can tell us if you have an allergy to a specific medication, certain types of foods, hay fever allergens (like dust and pollen), bee stings, pet dander, or mold. Once we know what type of allergy you have, it’s much easier to find the best way to treat it.

Nervous about allergy testing? Learn how it’s done

The good news is that we can do the skin testing right in our office and we’ll have results as quickly as within 15 minutes. There are two types of testing that we may do. They’re known as intradermal testing and prick testing.

In either case, we’ll introduced a very small amount of a potential allergen into your skin. We’ll then be able to check and see if your skin reacted allergically. Both options are virtually pain-free. The prick test uses a pin prick to get the allergen under the skin, while an intradermal test involves an injection just below the skin with a small needle.

The allergist will then look for signs that you’re allergic. This includes a bump or hive where you were introduced to the allergen. If there is a bump, then we’ll note the size of the bump to find out how sensitive you are. That bump will fade quickly and you shouldn’t have any other type of side effect.

Once we’ve tested you we can provide treatment options

After we’ve carefully considered the results of your allergy test, we’ll look at your medical history and the symptoms you experience today. We can then offer both preventative options to try and avoid the allergen and treatment options for when you do encounter it. If you’re ready to get started then we encourage you to call us at 805-658-9500 right away.