Testing is sometimes necessary when a person’s allergy symptoms are getting in the way of them being able to enjoy life and live it to the fullest. Allergy Testing in Evansville IN can reveal the allergens a person is allergic to so their doctor can provide the right treatment. Knowing what to expect from testing will help to set a person’s mind at ease, so they will be ready.
Allergy Testing Is Carried Out in a Doctor’s Office
When a person undergoes allergy testing, they will have it carried out a doctor’s office. It is important a patient follows the directions of their doctor so they can be prepared for Allergy Testing in Evansville IN. One of the most important preparations is avoiding taking any antihistamine medications for at least two weeks prior to testing as this can cause inaccurate test readings.
Most allergy testing is carried out through the prick method. Small scratches are made on the uppermost layers of the skin and then a potential allergen is put on the area. This allows the doctor to monitor the area and see how the patient’s body reacts to the allergen.
A positive reaction will create a welt and cause redness. The larger the reaction, the more sensitive the patient is to the allergen. The allergens are left in place for a timed period and then checked. Through this testing, a doctor will discover the substances and foods a patient is allergic to.
Testing Leads to Better Treatment
In the war against allergies, the battle is sometimes difficult. A doctor needs to know what a patient is allergic to so they can offer the right treatment plan. Minor allergies can sometimes be handled with lifestyle changes, but sometimes, further intervention is needed.
Testing allows a doctor to use immunotherapy to help their patient overcome their allergy symptoms. This treatment involves the injection of small amounts of allergens over an extended period of time so the patient can build up immunity and lessen their body’s response.
If your allergies are interfering with your everyday life, there is help available. It behooves you to seek an allergist for allergy testing. If you would like to schedule a consultation, Contact Accredited Asthma Allergy & Food Intolerance Center.
