Does it feel like you're experiencing trouble with allergies more often than the average person? Although you can buy over-the-counter allergy medication, that still doesn't help you solve the problem of understanding what is causing your allergic reaction and side effects in the first place. Before treating allergies and getting as much relief as possible, it's beneficial to know what you're allergic to because then you can avoid certain things to prevent allergy symptoms. Figuring out what you're allergic to means undergoing an allergy test where you can get the answers you need.
What Happens During Allergy Testing?
Different types of allergy tests are available and regularly performed on patients having trouble with allergic reactions to various products, animals, and foods. A doctor can recommend the ideal test to help you get the answers you seek.
Quick Prick of the Skin
Most people who need to have allergy testing done will undergo the skin prick test. During this test, the doctor will gently prick the skin with a thin needle containing the extract of various allergens, such as pet dander, mosquitoes, shellfish, eggs, and more. Upon pricking the skin, the doctor will label each spot so that you will know what you're allergic to at the very end of the test. You may not be allergic to everything your skin gets pricked with, but if you're allergic to anything, you will likely have a slight reaction after several minutes.
A skin prick can sound painful, but this test is relatively pain-free. You may feel a slight pinching sensation, which only lasts a second. However, this test is known for being one of the most accurate and is great for getting the answers you're looking for regarding your allergies.
Allergy Patch Test
Rather than pricking the skin, an alternative allergy test involves using small patches on the skin, each containing a specific allergen. While it's a practical test that can help you gain insights into what you're allergic to, this test takes slightly longer than the traditional skin prick test. A physician advises most patients to wear the patches on their skin for around two days before removing them to check for evidence of a potentially harmful reaction.
Choose between different allergy tests to find out what is currently causing you to go through allergic reactions, such as rashes, irritated eyes, itchy skin, and more. Whether you select the prick test, a patch test, or any other option offered to you by a doctor, you can discover what you're allergic to and then avoid those triggers, such as heavy perfumes, pet hair, seafood, and more.
For more information on allergy testing, contact a health professional near you.
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