Allergy Testing in Shelby, NC

This Could Be the Beginning of the End of Your Allergy Struggles

Allergies can significantly impact your quality of life, but understanding the types of allergies you have is the first step towards tackling them head-on. At Allergy Partners of Shelby, our allergy testing services can provide you with a clear roadmap to follow, ensuring that the unsettling symptoms that your allergies bring can finally be resolved.

Get in touch with us at (704) 859-0900 today or reach out online to learn more about our allergy testing and treatment plans.

How to Test for Allergies

Understand the Types of Allergy Tests

Allergy testing comes in several forms, each with its own set of procedures and considerations. As you prepare to take the tests, understanding what they entail can help ease any apprehension you may have.

• Skin Prick Test. The skin prick test is one of the most common methods used to identify allergies. It involves placing a small amount of a suspected allergen on the skin, then pricking the skin to allow it to enter the body. After about 15 minutes, if you have a reaction, such as redness or swelling, it can signify an allergy.
• Blood Test. Blood tests, also known as specific IgE tests, look for the presence of IgE antibodies, which the body produces in response to specific allergens. A blood sample is taken and tested for the allergic antibodies. This method is often used for people who cannot undergo skin tests due to skin conditions or other medical reasons.
• Patch Test. Patch testing is utilized to diagnose allergic contact dermatitis, which is caused by a substance triggering an immune response on the skin. This test involves applying small amounts of allergens to an adhesive patch, which is then placed on your skin for 48 hours. It's most commonly used to identify skin allergies, such as those involving metals or fragrances.

Meet with Our Team

Before diving into testing, it's crucial to speak with our professionals. We specialize in treating and diagnosing allergies, so we can guide you on the best approach for your situation.

Prior to your appointment, make a list of your symptoms and any patterns you've noticed. Be ready to discuss your medical history, current medications, and family history of allergies. This information will help our team identify potential triggers and suggest the most suitable tests.

Undergoing the Allergy Test

When you're ready, it's time to undergo the test. Each type of test has its parameters, but overall, the process is straightforward.

If you're taking a skin prick test, you'll likely have several allergens applied at once, using a grid-like pattern. For blood tests, a sample will be taken and sent to a lab for analysis. Patch tests simply require you to wear the patches for the indicated period.

The test process itself is generally painless, but mild discomfort or itchiness is possible during skin testing. Be prepared to manage this discomfort as instructed, whether through antihistamines or other methods.

Developing an Allergy Management Plan

Once we receive your test results, we can use that information to create a practical plan for managing your allergies. During this process, we will discuss various treatment options with you, including avoidance tactics, medications, and potentially allergen immunotherapy (such as allergy shots or under-the-tongue tablets). Depending on the identified allergens, we may recommend lifestyle adjustments, such as changes to your diet or the way you interact with your home environment.

Allergy Partners of Shelby Is Here to Help You Find Allergy Relief

The road to understanding and controlling your allergies is a journey that begins with allergy testing. Once you've identified your allergens and consulted with our team, you can implement a plan that brings relief and clarity to what was once a guessing game of potential triggers. Don't let your allergies dictate your life. Take the first step towards an allergy-free future.

Contact us at (704) 859-0900 today or reach out online to get a better understanding of the allergy testing process and set up an appointment with our team.