What To Expect With Allergy Testing

Are you one of the up to 50M Americans who suffer from allergies and have trouble controlling their symptoms? If so, it might be time to see an allergist Surprise, AZ, for allergy testing. Determining what is causing your skin rashes, chronic sneezing, and other key allergy symptoms is crucial to manage your allergies effectively. At Oasis Ear, Nose and Throat, the skilled physicians provide various in-office allergy tests to discover your allergy triggers. Besides, you can access several allergy therapy options to help enhance your life quality. Read on to learn more.

When Should You Seek Allergy Testing?

Allergy triggers, also known as allergens, could be identified virtually anywhere- within your surroundings, clothing, and even the foods you consume. Once exposed to an allergen, your immune system responds by producing histamine. Unfortunately, this histamine release could result in a range of unpleasant symptoms, including:

§  Wheezing

§  Runny nose

§  Sneezing

§  Hives or a skin rash

§  Nasal congestion

§  Itchy, watery eyes

In addition, food allergies could trigger bloating, abdominal discomfort, and digestive disturbance.

Whenever you have one or more of the above-mentioned allergy symptoms, determining what your triggers are might assist your allergy specialist in establishing the right treatment plan for you. Often, it is suggested that you arrange for allergy testing at Oasis Ear, Nose and Throat if you observe any warning signs of an allergy or if your symptoms persist despite using over-the-counter allergy meds. 

You must also obtain allergy testing if you suffer anaphylaxis, a catastrophic allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis is when your airways become swollen, making it harder to breathe. If left unaddressed, this reaction could result in severe long-term medical problems and fatality.

What To Anticipate During Allergy Testing?

At Oasis Ear, Nose and Throat, you can access two forms of allergy testing. Depending on your symptoms and general health, you might require one or both forms of allergy tests. These available tests include:

v  Blood Tests

Blood tests check the antibodies your body releases whenever exposed to an allergen. This test entails taking a blood sample, which is then sent to a laboratory for an investigation to discover possible allergy triggers.

v  Skin Tests

Skin testing entails the application of recognized allergens to your skin. Your allergist will put droplets of the liquified allergen in an organized fashion on your back or arm. Your doctor will carefully scrape your skin to allow the solution to seep into your skin.

If a red patch or swelling appears in the target area, it implies you are allergic to that substance.

During skin allergy tests, your physician keeps a close eye on your health. In case you develop severe allergic reactions, like anaphylaxis, your doctor can respond right away.

Obtaining The Results Of Your Allergy Test

The findings of your blood test could take about two weeks to arrive. However, the outcomes of your skin test are available right away.

Once you obtain your test outcomes, your allergy specialist can talk about your allergy care options. Whether medications or immunotherapy, your allergist will provide tailored treatment strategies to help you manage your current symptoms and avoid developing new ones.

Furthermore, your allergist can advise you on limiting allergens exposure, including shutting your windows on pollen-filled days and utilizing quality filters in your house to capture more dust. Similarly, if you have a food allergy, your doctor can help create a meal plan that eliminates the specific allergens.

There is no point in suffering from allergy symptoms when you may finally take action. Besides identifying specific allergy triggers, your allergy specialist at Oasis Ear, Nose and Throat can help you manage the associated symptoms or even condition your body to ignore them. Arrange an appointment today through mobile or request online to learn more.