Allergy Testing
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Sunshine Allergy and Asthma
Allergists & Asthma Specialists located in North Port, FL
Did you know that more than 50 million people in the United States have experienced allergies? Allergies are the sixth most common form of chronic illness in the United States. Identifying potential allergen triggers is the first step to finding relief. Nilamben Patel, DO, FAAAAI, at Sunshine Allergy and Asthma in North Port, Florida, performs allergy testing for foods, environmental allergens, and medications. If you’re ready to find a more permanent solution to your allergies, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.
Allergy Testing Q & A
What is allergy testing?
Allergy testing identifies environmental, food, drug, and other types of allergies. There are several types of allergy testing. The exact test you need depends on your symptoms and suspected allergy. Among the most common allergy tests are:
Skin test
A skin test involves one or more small pinpricks on the surface of your skin. Then, a small amount of the allergen placed in the area of the pinprick can identify reactions. Skin tests are usually for environmental allergies, but also for some other substances like penicillin.
Intradermal test
An intradermal test involves injecting some of a suspected allergen under your skin. Sometimes this test is the next step if the results of a skin test aren’t clear.
Blood test
A blood test checks a sample of your drawn blood for a variety of suspected allergens.
Challenge test
A challenge test checks for food or certain medication allergies. It involves eating or inhaling the allergen under supervision in the Sunshine Allergy and Asthma office.
Dr. Patel explains which type of allergy test best suits your situation based on your symptoms and health issues.
Why might I need allergy testing?
Some types of allergies cause sneezing, congestion, and itching that makes you miserable. These allergies can also make you feel tired and irritable, but they don’t threaten your health.
Other types of allergies and sensitivities trigger inflammation that can affect any organ and system in your body. These allergies pose a threat to your health.
Many allergies also have the potential to cause pain. Some cause localized, acute pain, while others contribute to or worsen chronic pain.
When you need help with allergies or chronic pain, Dr. Patel conducts testing for a range of allergies.
What if allergy testing reveals an allergy?
Environmental allergies develop when your immune system overreacts to something that you inhale or touch, such as:
- Pollen
- Dust mites
- Mold
- Pet dander
- Poison ivy
- Detergents
- Fragrances
- Cigarette smoke
If you have an environmental allergy, your treatment focuses on avoiding your allergens. Immunotherapy to desensitize your immune system is also available for seasonal allergies.
Food allergies develop when your immune system reacts to compounds in the things you consume, whether foods, beverages, supplements, or medications. Nearly all food allergies are treated by eliminating the compound from your diet.
A peanut allergy is an exception. The US Food & Drug Administration has approved oral immunotherapy for peanuts.
Whether you need relief from seasonal allergies or you want to get to the source of bodywide symptoms and illnesses, call Sunshine Allergy and Asthma or schedule an appointment online today.
