An allergy is related to the immune system having a reaction to a foreign substance that can be triggered through food, environmental factors, insect stings or chemicals. Allergy producing substances are called "allergens." When an allergen comes into contact with the body, it causes the immune system to develop an allergic reaction in people who have allergies. When the immune system is exposed to an allergen, it releases a chemical called a "histamine" that can cause sneezing, itchy eyes, itchy throat, nasal congestion, skin rash, stomach cramping, and other allergic related symptoms.
Examples of Allergens Include:
* Pollens
* Dust Mites
* Molds
* Pet Dander
* Foods
* Chemicals
* Latex
* Insect Stings
Examples of Allergy Symptoms:
* Allergy cough
* Itchy, burning, or tearing eyes
* Conjunctivitis (red or swollen eyes)
* Diarrhea
* Hives
* Itchiness (skin, nose, eyes, mouth, throat, etc.)
* Runny nose
* Skin rashes
* Shortness of breath
* Wheezing
* Gastrointestinal pain
Examples of Allergens Include:
* Pollens
* Dust Mites
* Molds
* Pet Dander
* Foods
* Chemicals
* Latex
* Insect Stings
Examples of Allergy Symptoms:
* Allergy cough
* Itchy, burning, or tearing eyes
* Conjunctivitis (red or swollen eyes)
* Diarrhea
* Hives
* Itchiness (skin, nose, eyes, mouth, throat, etc.)
* Runny nose
* Skin rashes
* Shortness of breath
* Wheezing
* Gastrointestinal pain
Allergy Testing
Skin Prick Test:
Skin prick testing is the most common method of allergy testing. In this test, the skin is slightly pricked while a small drop of allergen is exposed to the skin for about 15-20 minutes. Constant monitoring of the skin for signs of an allergic reaction, including redness and swelling is then done. You can expect to experience a slight discomfort when your skin is being pricked, and also some itchiness while the allergens are allowed to react. After your testing is done, an antihistamine is given to help with the itchiness created by the skin test.
Patch Test:
Patch testing may be used when you have been experiencing allergic reactions on your skin. For example, if you develop a rash after using a new shampoo or wearing a new piece of jewelry. During the patch test, a substance is placed on a patch that is then applied to your skin. After the initial visit when your patch is applied, there will be two short visit appointments to check your patches and a final visit when the
the patch will be removed to see if you have any allergic reactions. If you have allergic reactions, you will then discuss a plan of treatment with your doctor.
Blood Test:
Blood testing may be recommended to measure the antibodies present in your blood. One common blood test measures Immunoglobulin E. IgE is an antibody that your immune system develops in reaction to a specific allergen.
Intradermal Test:
Intradermal testing is similar to skin prick testing, the major difference being that the allergen is injected under the skin to form a small bubble. If you are familiar with the test used for tuberculosis, it is the same type of injection. Intradermal testing can be more sensitive than skin prick testing. Intradermal testing is also used for an insect sting allergy.
Treatments and Medications:
* Immunotherapy (allergy shots)
* Nasal sprays or aerosols (nasal steroids)
* Antihistamine’s (pill form)
Depending on the severity of your allergy and the type of allergy you may have, treatments and medications vary for each person.
Skin prick testing is the most common method of allergy testing. In this test, the skin is slightly pricked while a small drop of allergen is exposed to the skin for about 15-20 minutes. Constant monitoring of the skin for signs of an allergic reaction, including redness and swelling is then done. You can expect to experience a slight discomfort when your skin is being pricked, and also some itchiness while the allergens are allowed to react. After your testing is done, an antihistamine is given to help with the itchiness created by the skin test.
Patch Test:
Patch testing may be used when you have been experiencing allergic reactions on your skin. For example, if you develop a rash after using a new shampoo or wearing a new piece of jewelry. During the patch test, a substance is placed on a patch that is then applied to your skin. After the initial visit when your patch is applied, there will be two short visit appointments to check your patches and a final visit when the
the patch will be removed to see if you have any allergic reactions. If you have allergic reactions, you will then discuss a plan of treatment with your doctor.
Blood Test:
Blood testing may be recommended to measure the antibodies present in your blood. One common blood test measures Immunoglobulin E. IgE is an antibody that your immune system develops in reaction to a specific allergen.
Intradermal Test:
Intradermal testing is similar to skin prick testing, the major difference being that the allergen is injected under the skin to form a small bubble. If you are familiar with the test used for tuberculosis, it is the same type of injection. Intradermal testing can be more sensitive than skin prick testing. Intradermal testing is also used for an insect sting allergy.
Treatments and Medications:
* Immunotherapy (allergy shots)
* Nasal sprays or aerosols (nasal steroids)
* Antihistamine’s (pill form)
Depending on the severity of your allergy and the type of allergy you may have, treatments and medications vary for each person.
