Allergy Awareness Month is an important time of the year to pay close attention to our allergies and take necessary measures to control them. Allergies can greatly affect our lives, with symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and skin irritation. To better manage these issues, we must get tested for allergies to identify what triggers our reactions.
When considering allergy testing, one of the first steps is to make an appointment with an allergy specialist. During this appointment, they will ask questions about your health history and any allergy symptoms you are experiencing. The allergist will then give you instructions on how to prepare for testing – this could include avoiding certain foods or medications before the test.
Depending on your situation, there are different types of tests that may be conducted:
- Skin prick tests (SPT)
- Blood tests (IgE antibody tests)
With SPTs, a small amount of a potential allergen is applied directly onto the skin. If allergies are present, a raised and itchy welt will form at the site of testing; if there is no reaction then it likely means that you are not allergic to that specific substance. For IgE antibody testing, a sample of blood will be drawn from you, which can then be tested for antibodies associated with specific allergies. You will then get a phone call with your results.
It is important to note that results from allergy testing should be interpreted by an allergy specialist. Be sure to talk with your medical provider about any questions or concerns you may have regarding allergy testing and treatment plans after the diagnosis has been made. Our allergy specialists will advise which treatments are most suitable for you.
To conclude, Allergy Awareness Month serves as a reminder to take preventative measures against allergies by seeing one of our allergy specialists at Colorado ENT & Allergy. By learning and understanding more about our allergies through allergy testing and treatment, we can ensure that we live happier and healthier lives free from uncomfortable symptoms caused by common allergens. Should you have any allergy related questions, please feel free to contact us or schedule your appointment today!