Allergies can be inhaled (pollen, dust mite, pet dander, mold), ingested (food, medication) or contacted through the skin (insect venom, cosmetics, metals, chemicals, medications).
A board-certified allergist manages many types of allergy- related diseases. A history of allergy symptoms triggered by a possible allergen should prompt a visit to a board-certified allergist who will perform a detailed history and physical exam to help determine the need for allergy testing. Allergy skin testing is considered the fastest, most sensitive and cost-effective testing option for the detection of allergies.
Is allergy testing well tolerated?
Allergy skin testing is not considered painful. Skin prick testing or intradermal skin testing can cause itching at the sites of positive responses. After testing is complete, itching can be treated with topical steroid creams and oral anti-histamines. Generally, pediatric patients tolerate skin testing well.
Rarely, patients have an allergic reaction to allergy testing, resulting in hives, swelling, breathing problems or anaphylaxis.
Are you suffering from allergies? Schedule an allergy test with Charleston Allergy and Asthma today. One of our board- certified allergists can help you find the right treatment option for your allergies.
Schedule an Appointment
Please contact us if you believe you might need to be skin tested or would like to make an appointment with one of our board-certified allergists.