Skin Allergy Testing
Identify What Is Triggering Your Allergies
Skin allergy testing is a simple in-office test that helps identify the environmental allergens causing your symptoms. Small amounts of common allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander are applied to the skin to see how your body reacts.
The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes, and results are available the same day.
Who Should Consider Allergy Testing
You may benefit from testing if you experience:
- Frequent sneezing or nasal congestion
- Runny nose or post-nasal drip
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Seasonal allergies
- Chronic sinus symptoms
- Asthma triggered by environmental exposure
- Unexplained rashes or hives
Identifying your triggers allows your physician to create a personalized treatment plan to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
How to Prepare
To ensure accurate results:
- Stop antihistamines 5 to 7 days before your appointment (such as Benadryl, Zyrtec, Claritin, Allegra, and Xyzal)
- Avoid applying lotions or creams to your back or arms on the day of the test
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the upper back or forearm
Our team will review your medications and provide specific instructions before your visit.
What to Expect
During the test, small drops of allergen extracts are placed on the skin and gently introduced with a tiny skin prick. If you are allergic, a small bump similar to a mosquito bite appears within about 15 minutes. Your results are reviewed with you during the same visit so we can discuss next steps and treatment options.
