If you suspect that you have an allergy but don’t know what specifically is causing it, it’s important to get tested. Allergy testing can help you and your doctor determine what you’re allergic to so that you can avoid the trigger and reduce your symptoms.
Allergy Testing
Allergy tests can be performed in a variety of ways, depending on the suspected allergens. Common tests include skin tests, blood tests, and challenge tests.
Skin Tests
Skin tests are the most common type of allergy test and involve a skin prick or intradermal injection. During the test, a small amount of a suspected allergen is placed on the skin and then pricked or injected. If you’re allergic to that substance, you’ll develop a raised, red, itchy bump.
Blood Tests
Blood tests measure the level of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in the blood. IgE antibodies are produced by the body in response to an allergen. If you’re allergic to a certain substance, your body will produce more IgE antibodies than someone who isn’t allergic to that substance.
Challenge Tests
Challenge tests involve introducing a suspected allergen into your body to see if it causes an allergic reaction. Challenge tests can be performed as skin tests, inhalation tests, or oral tests.
Seeking Treatment
If you do have an allergy, it’s important to seek treatment to reduce your symptoms. Treatment may involve taking medications, such as antihistamines or steroids, or avoiding the allergen that’s causing your allergy.
If you have severe allergies, your doctor may recommend that you carry an epinephrine autoinjector, such as an EpiPen. An EpiPen is a device that administers a single dose of epinephrine, which helps reduce the effects of a severe allergic reaction.
It’s also important to take steps to prevent an allergic reaction. This may involve avoiding certain foods, wearing protective clothing, or avoiding outdoor activities when pollen counts are high.
If you suspect that you have an allergy but don’t know what it is, it’s important to get tested so that you can take steps to reduce your symptoms and prevent an allergic reaction.
