Dealing with allergies? Here’s what to expect from the testing process.
More than 50 million people in the US have an allergy. If you are dealing with a runny nose, nasal congestion, coughing, watery eyes or .jpg)
any of the symptoms of an allergy then turning to our Pembroke Pines, FL, otolaryngologists Dr. Craig Shapiro and Dr. Sina Joorabchi can give you the answers you need to help you manage your allergy symptoms.
What to Expect: Allergy Testing
Our allergy testing is performed under the direct supervision of our Pembroke Pines, FL, allergist. Most allergies can be diagnosed with a simple skin or blood test. Skin tests are usually performed because they more cost-effective and they produce faster results; however, in some instances, blood tests may be more accurate.
Allergy skin tests are performed by either pricking the skin with the allergen to see how the skin reacts or by injecting some of the allergens into the arm or forearm to see if swelling or redness appears. Results will usually appear within 20 minutes; however, there can still be a delayed allergic reaction that can occur up to two days after the test.
While the itching and swelling that comes from the test can be a bit annoying the test is not painful, and the reaction should go away within a couple of hours. Our allergist may also apply an antihistamine to the area to reduce redness and itching.
Blood testing may be the preferred method for diagnosing an allergy if someone is dealing with severe dermatological problems such as psoriasis or eczema (flare-ups may be triggered by a skin test) or if they are taking certain medications that cannot be stopped prior to testing.
Our allergists can test everything from common outdoor allergens (e.g. pollen; insect bites and stings; mold) and indoor allergens (e.g. dust mites; pet dander) to foods and medications.
When to Get Tested
If you have some idea of what might be causing your symptoms then by simply avoiding the triggers you may be able to get your symptoms under control; however, if you can’t then it’s time to see one of our ENT doctors. Prior to testing we will also go through your medical history and ask you questions about the symptoms you are experiencing.
If you are dealing with persistent or severe allergies that are affecting your daily routine it’s time to turn to Broward Center for Ear, Nose, Throat & Allergy in Pembroke Pines, FL and serving the Broward County and Hollywood, FL, areas, for testing and treatment.