With time, our bodies and the environment continuously change, making it common to develop allergies. Although allergic reactions may not be serious, they may become severe over time. Individuals experiencing these reactions usually encounter mild symptoms. Therefore, allergy testing may be integral in measuring your specific allergens, including tree pollen, foods, drugs, or molds. If interested, San Antonio allergy testing services can be helpful to you. Since there are several allergy testing options for different allergens, let’s discuss some options your practitioner can recommend.
Oral Allergen Challenge
Healthcare providers sometimes require this challenge to check diagnosis when the root cause of the allergic reaction is not detected. However, the provider will perform it by utilizing medications and foods under the supervision of an allergy specialist or clinical immunology. Moreover, resuscitation facilities must be readily available for the process to commence.
Lung Function Tests
Testing specialists apply this testing (spirometry) particularly to test asthma. Since asthma is common in individuals with an allergic reaction, you will require spirometry if you report possible asthma symptoms. During the process, your practitioner will inquire you to inhale deeply and then aggressively exhale quickly while blowing in a given measuring device for lung function. You will redo the process about three more times for consistent results.
Skin Prick Tests
During the process, your healthcare specialist applies the selected allergens to the back or forearm with a dropper, and the skin gently pricked using a sterilized lancet. A positive outcome shows red weal on the skin after 20 minutes. For effectiveness, this process should only be conducted by a highly trained healthcare specialist conducting the procedure, selecting allergens, analyzing results, and managing any allergic reaction present.
Blood Allergy Test
This process comprises analyzing a blood sample for antibodies produced in reaction to an allergen. Furthermore, a specialist applies the procedure if the allergy victim has excess sensitivity for a skin prick test. Your provider will determine the effective type of blood test depending on your symptoms. In some cases, this test may be performed together with a skin test.
Patch Tests
In most instances, healthcare professionals apply this testing option to examine contact dermatitis. Some common triggers include fragrances in soaps, nickel in coins, and chrome in leather. The specialist applies the patches to the client’s back in adhesive strips. Afterward, the area is investigated for 2 to 4 days, where a positive result shows as blisters or redness at the site of a given substance.
Aspirin Desensitization
This procedure is available for clients with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD). The condition is characterized by NSAID-induced respiratory reactions or aspirin in patients with chronic respiratory diseases like nasal polyps, sinusitis, and asthma. The procedure is done for some days to temporarily test individuals’ capability to tolerate aspirin.
The symptoms of allergic reactions to substances may be annoying or life-threatening. As a result, if you notice an abnormal reaction to a certain substance, you should consult your healthcare practitioner. If your provider is fully booked, do not worry; Castle Hills Family Practice in San Antonio, Texas, has covered you. At the center, a team of experienced medical experts is determined to offer comprehensive on-site allergy testing that you will never regret. To schedule an appointment, use their online scheduling link today.