Allergy Testing

Do you suffer from seasonal allergies?

More than 50 million people in the U.S. alone have allergies. Finding the allergen, or cause of your allergies, is the first step in finding the right treatment options for you and your allergy symptoms.

What is the most effective way of determining what your allergies are?

Skin scratch allergy testing. Skin scratch testing is done using a device that is dipped in an allergen and then scratched into the surface of your skin (to get under just the top layer of skin). This is a painless procedure and is well tolerated by all ages (as young as 5 years old)! Skin scratch testing is also covered by most insurance (though may be subject to a deductible).

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, skin tests for allergies have been in practice since the 1860s. Today’s versions are barely invasive, well tolerated, test for a broad range of allergens, and often produce quick results. The “scratch” test has become the medical standard testing anywhere between 10 to 50 different allergens and taking from 5 to 10 minutes.

Conditions that skin scratch testing can help treat:

• Chronic sinus conditions
• Seasonal allergies
• Eczema
• Chronic ear concerns
• Environmental reactions
• Hay fever
• Asthma

**Patients need to discontinue their allergy medication for 3 days prior to testing**

How are allergies treated?

Seasonal and environmental allergens can be treated by allergy desensitization injections or sublingual drops. Injections are generally done in an allergist office, but sublingual drops can be done on a daily basis in the comfort of your own home.

Sublingual immunotherapy introduces small doses, usually as drops under the tongue or a tablet, to build tolerance to an allergen . This increased tolerance reduces symptoms over time.

What allergies do you test for?

Our panel includes 59 of the most common allergens found in this area including: tree, grass, and weed pollens, dust mites, molds, cat and dog dander.

What if I have food allergies?

Many people confuse having an allergy to food with having a sensitivity to food. Common symptoms of food allergies include hives, swelling, anaphylaxis, breathing difficulties, and or severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Food sensitivities most commonly present with GI symptoms, worsened inflammatory states, brain fog, fatigue, and headaches. If you are not sure if you have a sensitivity or allergy to a food our doctors can help you determine that!