Skin allergies can be frustrating, especially when you’re not sure what’s triggering them. Without a clear understanding of the cause of rashes, itching and other symptoms, you just won’t know the best treatment for a skin allergy. Fortunately, Atlanta allergists have several trusted allergy testing procedures to identify why your immune system is reacting. Let’s look at how testing is crucial for recognizing skin allergy triggers.
Using Allergy Tests to Uncover Skin Allergy Causes
Skin allergies can appear in different ways, with some appearing after touching an irritant and others being triggered by breathing in allergens or eating certain foods. Understanding your skin allergy ensures you can receive the appropriate treatment.
How Allergy Testing for Skin Allergies Works
Allergy testing monitors immune system responses that indicate a sensitivity to specific allergens. Tests expose the body to small, controlled amounts of potential triggers through the skin, or they detect antibodies in blood samples that reveal past exposure to allergens. When a person has a skin allergy, their skin will react with redness, raised bumps (or both), while a blood test will reveal elevated levels of specific antibodies.
Tests for Diagnosing a Skin Allergy
Due to the risk of severe reactions, you should see an allergist for skin allergy symptoms after noticing a response. Allergists typically use one of the following tests, depending on whether they suspect contact dermatitis or a food or environmental trigger.
- Patch Testing – Substances causing contact dermatitis (such as nickel, fragrances, preservatives and dyes) are applied to the back for 48–72 hours to check for reactions.
- Skin Prick Testing – Substances containing foods, pollen, dust and pet dander are placed on the skin and pricked to test for hives and other rapid skin reactions.
- Blood Testing – When the skin cannot be tested, a blood sample can be drawn and sent to a laboratory to measure antibodies linked to an allergen.
Each of these allergy tests is a reliable method for identifying skin allergy triggers. Allergists combine test results with a patient’s medical history and symptoms to make an accurate diagnosis.
When Should You Consider Allergy Testing?
Gaining a clear understanding of skin allergy triggers makes prevention more effective. To determine whether adult and pediatric allergy testing is right for you or your child, consider if reactions are appearing without a clear cause. In some cases you may be aware of a possible trigger, such as skin irritation after eating certain foods or wearing jewelry. In each of these cases, testing can provide clarity and help your allergist to develop a skin allergy treatment plan that reduces the risk of reactions.
Professional Skin Allergy Testing in the Atlanta Area
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center helps patients identify their skin allergy triggers with dependable testing solutions. Visit one of our Atlanta-area treatment centers for an accurate diagnosis and allergy management plan. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment now.
