Allergy testing is the best way to determine the cause of an allergic reaction. From a wide range of foods to dust or mold, it is possible to be allergic to almost any substance. However, diagnosing the allergens responsible for allergic reactions is not always straightforward. Working with your Atlanta allergist, it is possible to get a precise diagnosis using allergy skin testing.
Skin Testing For Allergies
Skin testing is the fastest way to diagnose an allergy, with results delivered in as little as 15 minutes. The different types of skin testing for allergies can be conducted at your allergy doctor’s office under close supervision. The results can then be used to develop a treatment plan that reduces the risk of an allergic reaction. The main types of allergy skin testing are skin prick tests and skin patch tests.
What Is a Skin Prick Test?
A skin prick test detects allergic reactions to substances like food, pollen, mold and pet dander. The test aims to measure the concentration of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies by monitoring reactions on the skin. Substances suspected of causing allergic reactions – potentially up to 50 allergens – are placed on the forearm or back and a needle punctures the skin beneath.
Shortly after the introduction of the substance, a red and itchy hive may appear on the skin. This reaction is confirmation that you are allergic to the substance.
What Is a Skin Patch Test?
The skin patch test focuses on contact skin allergies as opposed to reactions from food consumption or airborne allergens. Skin prick test results are delivered within an hour, but skin patch results take about 48-96 hours.
With a skin patch test the process involves placing patches containing various allergens onto the back. Patches are worn for approximately 48 hours and the subsequent presence of a rash confirms an allergy.
If you suffer from contact dermatitis or hypersensitivity to chemicals, rubber, metals, cosmetic ingredients and foods more often than not, your allergist will recommend a skin patch test.
To find out the best allergy testing option for you, contact our office right away.
Are Skin Allergy Tests Safe?
Skin allergy tests are safe procedures for diagnosing an allergy. As well-established testing methods, skin prick testing and skin patch testing carry a low risk of causing severe reactions when performed by an allergist. In both cases, allergists can assess the risk to a patient with severe allergies and advise on possible side effects from the process.
In the case of a skin prick test, a person is likely to experience redness, itching or swelling at the test site, indicating that they have an allergy. While anaphylaxis is rare, a small number of highly allergic individuals could experience a severe reaction. Conducting tests at an allergist’s office means that the patient’s reactions are monitored and can be treated immediately.
During skin patch testing, patients are not monitored for the duration of the test. However, anaphylaxis from patch testing is rare, and you are far more likely to experience redness, swelling, blistering or itching as your skin reacts to the allergen.
Professional Allergist Testing vs. Home Testing Kits
Because a skin allergy test is the quickest way to detect an allergy, the process has made its way into home test kits. With the prevalence of home skin testing and products that allege to detect allergen sensitivity, many people believe they can get accurate test results in the comfort of their own homes.
However, the reality is that most home testing is inaccurate, increasing the importance of visiting an allergy clinic. A visit to a professional allergist takes less time than many people assume, and your allergist will assess your symptoms, review the relevant medical history – and use professional-grade skin testing for accurate results.
What Treatments Are Available After Allergy Testing?
If testing confirms you have an allergy, your allergist will advise on the best treatment option. While avoidance of an allergen can minimize risks, long-term results can be achieved with immunotherapy. Immunotherapy treatment desensitizes the body to allergens through gradual exposure over many months.
Your allergist will develop a personalized treatment plan based on the results of the tests, symptom analysis and medical history. Depending on the cause and severity of your allergy and its impact on your daily life, you could benefit from a combination of self-care steps. These can include using air filters in the home, making dietary adjustments, using hypoallergenic skin products, medications (decongestants, nasal steroids, antihistamines), as well as long-term desensitization treatment (oral immunotherapy or allergy shots).
We Can Help With Allergy Testing and Treatment
If you have experienced an allergic reaction, it is essential to get an accurate diagnosis. We use skin prick, skin patch and other allergy testing processes from Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus centers throughout the Atlanta area. Call (678) 668-4688 or contact us online for allergy testing today.
