An allergic reaction can be annoying and, in some situations, life-threatening. When you have an allergic reaction, your immune system overreacts, producing antibodies likely to trigger an allergic reaction. Thus, allergy testing is the only way your healthcare provider can identify the allergies, helping you avoid potential problems in the future. Fortunately, Kingwood allergy testing can help detect your irritants with different tests, including intradermal, skin prick, and blood tests. Different tests work differently. For instance, while a blood test might need a blood sample, a skin test might entail irritating your skin with an allergen.
How Does Allergy Testing Work?
Several allergy tests have the same goal- to detect an allergy antibody responsible for your reactions. Unlike a blood allergy test that entails drawing blood to check for allergy triggers, a skin allergy test might prompt your healthcare provider to apply an allergy-causing substance on your skin with equipment that pricks your skin surface. The primary advantage of a skin test is its sensitivity. The test allows your doctor to test for various allergens, giving you quick results. Thanks to the immediate results, your doctor will devise a treatment plan.
What Happens During an Allergy Skin Test?
Allergy skin tests help your doctor and your physician diagnose allergic conditions. During the test, your doctor exposes your skin to allergens likely to cause a reaction then waits for the results. The medical professional will then use your results and review your medical history to confirm specific substances you are likely to react to when you eat, breathe, or touch an allergy-causing substance. The allergic conditions you are likely to have include:
- Food allergies
- Allergic asthma
- Dermatitis
- Bee venom allergy
- Hay fever
- Penicillin allergy
Though skin tests are safe and defective for adults and children, your doctor might not advise you to go for the test. For instance, the healthcare professional may not recommend a skin test when you:
- Take drugs like antihistamines likely to affect your results.
- Have a severe allergic reaction likely to result in life-threatening reactions.
- Have skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema that might affect extensive areas of your skin.
How Will You Know the Allergy Test That Is Right for You?
Though both blood and skin tests might be effective, your goals, preferences, skin condition, and the medications you might be taking significantly play a role in your preferred allergy test. The medical professional will inquire about your symptoms and the medications you are taking. After a thorough evaluation, your doctor may suggest an option that best suits your needs.
How Will You Know You Need Allergy Testing?
You are likely to react to various things including food, allergens in the air, fragrances, latex, and metals. Different allergies take time to show symptoms. For instance, you may start showing symptoms approximately 30 minutes after a food allergy. The symptoms you might have with the allergy include swelling and generalized itching. On the other hand, you will start experiencing immediate signs if you react to substances in the air. Therefore, your doctor might need you to contact him for allergy testing if you notice symptoms after exposure to an allergen.
Do not let an allergic reaction pose a threat to your life when you can seek help. Contact your doctor to know how allergy testing can help you manage your symptoms.
