Allergy testing is a crucial factor in preventing allergic reactions and protecting your health and well-being. The testing process requires an appointment with your Atlanta allergy doctor, and will help identify the exact triggers that cause adverse responses. Since there’s more than one type of allergy testing available, many people will benefit from learning more about these processes. Here are some of the main facts about food allergy testing – and how to protect yourself from allergens.
The Main Facts About Food Allergy Testing
Many aspects are involved in the allergy testing process. Let’s look at some of the essential facts now.
There Are Various Types of Food Allergy Testing
Allergists have different testing options at their disposal to ensure safe and accurate results. A skin prick allergy test is the quickest and most common test (but this does require patients to temporarily stop taking antihistamines). As alternatives, a blood test or oral challenge test will also provide reliable allergy information.
Food Allergy Testing Is a Multifaceted Process
Allergy testing is a comprehensive process that includes examining a person’s medical history and discussing symptoms. While your allergy doctor interprets the physical results from in-office testing, your additional medical history is a very important component in this process.
Food Allergies and Intolerance Are Not the Same
Food allergies result from an immune system overreaction, while food intolerance is a digestive issue. If you are unsure (and many are), you should see a food allergy doctor to gain greater clarity on these conditions.
Food Allergy Testing Is Accurate
The results of food allergy testing deliver accurate information so an allergist can confirm (or rule out) a diagnosis. According to Food Allergy Research & Education, skin prick tests rarely produce false negatives. And while false positives are more common, allergists look at the whole picture – symptoms and medical history along with the test data – before making an assessment.
Home Testing Is Often Unreliable
Home allergy testing sounds like a helpful convenience, yet it can provide inaccurate or confusing results. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommends avoiding at-home IgG testing (no matter how tempting). With your health at stake, it’s worth visiting a specialist to obtain a reliable diagnosis.
Oral Challenge Tests Are the Gold Standard
An oral food challenge involves giving a patient small doses of food and monitoring the reactions over time. This test can take at least three hours, and is considered to be the gold standard in allergy testing. Your allergist will determine which testing method is best for your situation.
Testing Can Identify if an Allergy Has Been Outgrown
Allergy testing is a valuable tool if a child has undergone a food allergy treatment or been exposed to an allergen without a reaction. The test will safely identify whether or not there is an immune system response after allergen exposure.
Professional Food Allergy Testing Services in Atlanta
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center is a trusted provider of food allergy testing solutions. For an accurate allergy diagnosis and treatment plan, visit one of our centers in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth or Johns Creek. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment today.
