What to Expect from a Standard Allergy Skin Test?
Overview
During allergy skin tests, your skin is exposed to suspected allergy-causing substances (allergens) and is then observed for signs of an allergic reaction.
Along with your medical history, allergy tests may be able to confirm whether a particular substance you touch, breathe, or eat is causing symptoms.
What to Expect from a Standard Allergy Skin Test
The expert team at Advanced Allergy & Asthma /Food Allergy Center of Illinois uses a wide variety of diagnostic techniques to determine the cause of your allergy symptoms.
Skin testing is often the most comfortable, accurate, and cost-effective option. It can quickly identify many common allergies, including:
- Food
- Medication, such as penicillin
- Contact dermatitis
- Allergy-triggered asthma
- Venomous insects, such as bees
- Dust, pollens, mold, and other airborne allergens (hay fever)
An allergy skin test is also known as a “scratch test.” It is a series of pricks, typically administered to your forearm or back. First, will clean and mark the area for easy identification. After this, they will prick into the skin with a small amount of each potential allergen. This method can almost instantly detect over 40 common allergies. It is much more comfortable than a standard injection, as it only breaks the skin’s surface. It should not cause bleeding or scabbing.
The reaction isn’t severe, given the small amount of allergen used. If you do react, it will appear as a little bump. Dr. Askenazi and the team will clean the area and read your results.
They will develop a care plan that corresponds to your unique lifestyle. Dr. Askenazi will talk with you about your potential exposure to any allergens that cause a reaction and will put together a care plan that may combine avoidance, immunotherapy, or over-the-counter medications.
