All About Allergy Tests
When we have sniffling, sneezing, or red bumps on the skin, we assume that allergies are the culprit. But allergies are just one explanation. To be absolutely certain of the cause, you’ll need to visit your doctor and undergo allergy testing.
What Are Allergy Tests?
Allergy tests are performed by doctors to figure out which substances you are allergic to, and to measure the severity of your allergic reactions. Tiny amounts of common allergens are introduced into your body. By measuring your body’s reaction to these substances, the doctor will be able to diagnose and treat your allergies in the best possible way.
Are There Different Types of Allergy Tests?
Yes. Skin tests are the most common. During a percutaneous skin test, the doctor pricks or scratches the skin with small amounts of various allergens. These tests help detect your sensitivity to common allergens like pet dander, mold, and pollen.
An intracutaneous test is slightly more invasive. The allergens are injected beneath the skin rather than scratched into it. This test checks for potentially dangerous allergies, such as allergies to insect venom and antibiotics.
Patch tests involve exposing a patch of skin to potential allergens. These tests are often used to detect allergies to chemicals such as hair dyes and fabric softeners. Patch tests can also detect latex allergies, gold or nickel allergies, and any other allergy that would cause contact dermatitis.
For people with severe allergic reactions, a blood test might be required. This will prevent them from being exposed to their allergens like they would be during a regular skin test.
When the body has an allergic reaction, the immune system produces a chemical called immunoglobin E. Blood tests measure the amount of immunoglobin E in the patient’s bloodstream. High levels are indicative of allergies.
While blood tests are considered safe, they aren’t perfect. For one thing, they are more expensive than skin allergy tests. For another, they can only predict whether or not an individual will be prone to allergies. They cannot measure the severity of the allergy.
How Should I Prepare for Allergy Testing?
Before your skin or blood test, it’s important to make sure that all allergy medicines are out of your system. For prescription-strength drugs, this can take a week or longer. Over-the-counter medications usually wear off within a day or two.
The point of allergy tests is to get a firm diagnosis for your condition. If you have antihistamines in your system, they might suppress your body’s allergic reaction, causing inaccurate test results.
Be sure to ask your doctor if you should take other precautions before your allergy tests.
