What are the different types of allergy tests?
Dr. Lichtenfeld stays current on the most advanced tests and treatments in the field of allergy-immunology. Depending on your needs, she may recommend one of the following allergy tests:
Skin testing
During an allergy skin test, Dr. Lichtenfeld places a small amount of a suspected allergen on your skin, usually on the forearm or back. Then, she gently pricks the skin surface. In about 20 minutes, redness and swelling could occur, indicating you’re allergic to that substance.
Skin testing can check for allergies to several substances at once. Dr. Lichtenfeld may create a small grid of up to 40 different allergen spots on your back or forearm. Only the spots that react mean you have an allergy.
Another method of skin testing involves injecting a small amount of allergen into your skin. Dr. Lichtenfeld may do this to test for insect venom or penicillin allergies.
Even though skin testing involves exposure to an allergen, it’s completely safe and Dr. Lichtenfeld monitors your response the entire time.
RAST blood testing
If skin testing isn’t possible, Dr. Lichtenfeld may take a small blood sample to send to a lab for analysis. Though this type of testing can take up to several days to deliver results, it may be a better option for certain conditions, such as for a patient with severe eczema.
Why would I need allergy testing?
Dr. Lichtenfeld may perform allergy testing if you have any of the following conditions:
- Hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
- Asthma
- Eczema
- Hives
- Food allergies
- Insect sting allergies
Allergy testing can reveal the triggers that cause your allergic reactions, including foods, drugs, and environmental factors like pollen.
What is the next step after allergy testing?
Once she discovers the source of your allergy symptoms, Dr. Lichtenfeld develops an individualized treatment plan. Depending on your specific condition, this may include:
- Avoiding known allergens
- Immunotherapy treatment (allergy shots)
- Individualized medication management
Allergy shots involve injecting controlled amounts of specific allergens into your body in increasing doses. Over time, this causes your immune system to become less sensitive to the allergen, reducing the allergic reaction.
If you’re ready to overcome your allergies, call Dr. Amy Lichtenfeld or book an appointment online.
