Skin Allergy Testing

If you frequently get a runny nose, itchy eyes, or hives, but don’t know why, consider skin allergy testing to identify the cause. At Comprehensive Dermatology in Woodmere and Westbury, New York, the team provides three types of skin allergy testing to cause mild immune reactions that help them identify an allergy. Call Comprehensive Dermatology or schedule an appointment online to review your options today.

What is skin allergy testing?

Skin allergy testing identifies allergens that cause reactions for you, such as eczema and other allergic symptoms. Allergies happen when your immune system is sensitive to substances that, for most people, are harmless. In an effort to eliminate those allergens from your body, your immune system reacts and causes allergic symptoms. 

There are three types of skin allergy testing:

Allergy scratch tests

For this test, the team scrapes your skin with a sharp object that has trace amounts of a possible allergen on the tip. They then observe the scratches for reactions. 

Intradermal tests

Intradermal tests involve small injections of possible allergens. As with allergy scratch tests, the team then observes the area for a reaction. 

Allergy patch tests

During an allergy patch test, the team places adhesive bandages on your skin that contain trace amounts of allergens. Days later, they remove the patches to look for signs of a reaction. 

Which allergies can skin allergy testing detect?

Many allergens cause allergic reactions in thousands of people. Skin allergy tests can identify reactions to many of the most common allergens, including:

• Pet dander
• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Certain medications (e.g., penicillin)

Skin allergy testing is usually not used to identify allergies to food like eggs, milk, and shellfish. That is because food allergies are the most likely to cause severe reactions. Other tests from allergy specialists, like elimination diets, are the better option if you have a suspected food allergy. 

When should I consider skin allergy testing?

It’s a good idea to book an appointment for skin allergy testing if you experience allergic symptoms but aren’t sure what’s causing them. Even if you have a strong hunch, skin allergy testing can rule out other possibilities and confirm your allergy so you can take steps to treat it. 

Common allergic symptoms include:

• Nasal congestion
• Hives
• Itching
• Watery eyes
• Sneezing
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Wheezing

Some allergic reactions are strong enough to be life-threatening. To minimize the risk of complications, it’s important to identify and avoid your allergens. There are also treatments available to minimize your allergic reactions. 

Call Comprehensive Dermatology or schedule an appointment online to find out more about skin allergy testing today.