Why Should I Get Allergy Tested?

Allergies impact over 50 million Americans each year and are a chief cause of chronic illnesses. Sadly, most individuals never seek professional allergy testing to really understand their condition. Even if you only experience mild symptoms from eating, touching or breathing a substance, a severe allergic reaction could be around the corner. But with an allergy test from an Atlanta-area allergist, you can take the necessary precautions to stay healthy.

Reasons to Get Allergy Tested

If you are thinking about an allergy test for you or your child, it is fair to assume you have concerns. A simple allergy test from an experienced allergist can put your mind at ease and help you to treat the condition. Here are some reasons to make an appointment for allergy testing.

Allergies Can Become More Severe

A common reason for avoiding an allergy test is that you’ve never faced a severe reaction. In reality allergies are not predictable, with some conditions getting worse over time. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening, and it is crucial to carry an auto-injector with you. But if you have never undergone testing, you won’t be prepared for a worst-case scenario.

Allergy Testing Can Lead to a Solution

As there is no cure for an allergy, many people assume you have to suffer with little to no treatment. But there are treatment options that go beyond simply trying to avoid the allergen. Allergy shots and oral immunotherapy are successful treatments that desensitize the immune system to an allergen. In fact, one of the main benefits of allergy testing is gaining a closer understanding of your treatment options.

Allergies Are Complicated

It is natural to make assumptions about an allergy. If you start sneezing when pollen levels are high, you may naturally assume you have hay fever. Similarly, a reaction after eating a certain food would suggest a specific food allergy. But you may find you are allergic to a more specific allergen. For example, you could be allergic to a certain type of grass, or a single nut in the tree nut family. Allergy testing offers a deeper insight into your condition.

How Does Allergy Testing Work?

There are three main allergy tests. A skin prick test involves placing small amounts of an allergen just beneath the top layer of the skin. A blood test takes a sample of blood for laboratory analysis. Finally, an oral challenge food test requires small amounts of a suspected allergen to be consumed under medical supervision. After an allergy test and a consultation with your allergist, the appropriate allergy treatment can be provided.

Arrange an Allergy Test Today

Looking for an accurate diagnosis of your allergies? Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center provides allergy tests at our locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. To schedule an appointment, call us at 678-668-4688 or contact us online.