About Allergy Testing

If you’re dealing with sneezing, itching, or other mysterious symptoms, you might be one of the millions of Americans affected by allergies. Finding the source of your discomfort is the first step toward relief. Our allergy test clinic at Allergy & Asthma Associates of Michigan provides comprehensive testing to identify our patients’ triggers and help them manage symptoms effectively. Understanding how testing works can empower you to take control of your health, so keep reading to learn what allergy testing involves and the different types available.

Allergy testing is a medical procedure performed by a specialist to determine if your body has an allergic reaction to a known substance. When you have an allergy, your immune system overreacts to a substance that is normally harmless, like pollen, mold, animal dander, dust mites and/or certain foods. This reaction releases chemicals like histamine, which cause allergy symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, or skin rashes. Severe reaction can also occur such as anaphylaxis, more often seen in food allergy. An allergy test can pinpoint which specific substances, or allergens, are causing your symptoms.

There are several methods for testing allergies, but the two most common are skin tests and blood tests. An allergist will recommend the best option for you based on your symptoms, medical history, age, and other factors.

Skin tests are the most common and reliable method for allergy testing. They’re safe, minimally invasive, and provide fast results. During a skin test, an allergist will apply a small amount of a suspected allergen to your skin. If you’re allergic to that substance, a small, raised bump, like a mosquito bite, will appear at the site of the test. The site may also temporarily get red and itchy.

Blood tests, also known as specific IgE tests, measure the amount of allergy-causing antibodies (Immunoglobin E) in your bloodstream. Your doctor will take a blood sample and send it to a lab for analysis. This method is often used when skin tests can’t be performed.

Allergy testing is generally very safe. The most common side effect of a skin test is slight swelling, itching, or redness at the test site. These symptoms typically subside within a few hours. More severe reactions are rare because the amount of allergen used is so small. All testing is conducted in a controlled medical environment where a professional can immediately treat any reaction. Blood tests carry only the minimal risk associated with having blood drawn, such as slight bruising at the needle site.

The most common type of skin test is the “prick” or “scratch” test. Here’s what happens:

• Preparation – Your allergist will clean a section of your skin, usually on your forearm or back. They will use a marker and indicate different sections of your skin where they well test for various allergens. Antihistamines must be stopped three days prior to your skin testing.
• Application – A drop of potential allergen extract is placed on your skin.
• Prick – The allergist will then use a small, sterile probe to gently prick the skin underneath the drop, allowing a tiny amount of the allergen to enter on or just below the surface. This isn’t painful and doesn’t cause bleeding.
• Observation – You’ll wait 15 to 20 minutes to see if a reaction occurs. If you’re allergic, a small, itchy red bump will develop. The allergist will measure its size to determine the severity of your allergy.

One of the biggest advantages of skin testing is the speed of the results. You’ll know the outcome of your allergy test before you even leave the doctor’s office. The entire appointment, including the testing and waiting periods, usually takes about an hour. Unlike a general physician or pediatrician, upon receiving the results you will have immediate access to our expert allergy providers. Your allergist will be able to discuss the results with you immediately and recommend a treatment plan.

Blood test results take longer to come back – typically a few days to a week – as the sample must be analyzed in a laboratory, although the results may be less sensitive.

Deciding between a skin test and a blood test is a decision you’ll make with your allergist. They’ll consider your health, symptoms, and lifestyle to determine which method is most appropriate and will provide the most accurate information. However, both tests are effective tools for diagnosing allergies and helping to create personalized treatment plans to manage symptoms.

Allergy & Asthma Associates of Michigan is a trusted allergy test clinic where specialists can help you identify your triggers. Stop wondering where you can get an allergy test done and schedule an appointment at one of our offices. Contact us today.