If you experience breathing difficulties after encountering allergens such as pollen, it is important to get tested for allergic asthma. Allergic asthma is a common form of asthma that is usually prevalent during allergy season. Just as with other forms of asthma, a failure to treat the condition correctly could be life-threatening. Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center works with patients in Atlanta and beyond to diagnose and treat allergy-induced asthma.
How Do You Test for Allergic Asthma?
There are various tests used to diagnose asthma. A lung function test, peak flow test and spirometry are the most common methods of diagnosis, but they won’t help to identify an allergic trigger. You may be asking, “how will an allergist near me work out the specific allergen responsible for triggering my asthma attack?” In most cases, they will use one of the following tests.
Blood Test
A blood test measures the level of antibodies in the body that are related to a particular allergen. An increased level of specific antibodies indicates your immune system is overreacting to allergen presence in your system. While blood tests can provide accurate results, due to laboratory processing times a diagnosis may take days.
Skin Prick Test
A skin prick test is a faster method that can deliver results within an hour. Drops of a substance containing various allergens are placed on the skin. Your allergist then pricks the top layer of the skin and waits to see if a red bump forms. This method can test for various allergies at the same time, including food, pollen, mold and insect allergies.
Patch Test
During the patch test, various allergen patches are secured to your back. These patches are left on for 1–2 days, and then your allergist will check your skin for signs of a minor allergic reaction. If you have been searching for an allergist near me to test for multiple allergens, get in contact with us to find out more about these allergy tests.
What Are the Allergic Asthma Symptoms to Look Out For?
Allergic asthma symptoms are the same as asthma symptoms, but they are experienced after contact with an allergen. Common symptoms include the following.
- Difficulty breathing
- Tight chest
- Cough
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
An allergic reaction may also produce other symptoms such as hives, itchy skin, a runny nose, swelling of the lips and throat – and in extreme cases, anaphylaxis. If you experience severe symptoms, it is important to call emergency medical services. For less severe cases, an appointment with your allergist is the first step towards effective treatment.
Does an Allergist Near Me Test for Allergic Asthma?
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center has experienced allergists working from locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth, and Johns Creek. If you have concerns about allergic asthma or any other allergy, make an appointment for a consultation. Call us at (678) 668-4688 or request help online.
