What To Expect During an Allergy Test

Allergies occur when your immune system excessively reacts to harmless substances, like pollen, pet dander, or some foods. When these allergens enter your body, your immune system identifies them as threats and releases chemicals, like histamines, to fight them off. This reaction can lead to symptoms from mild to severe.

Allergies can negatively affect you in various ways. For example, seasonal allergies may cause sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion, making you feel miserable during specific times of the year. Food allergies might lead to hives, digestive issues, or even life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Decatur Pediatric Group in Smyrna, Clarkston, or Lithonia, GA, recommends allergy testing when allergies significantly impact your daily life or if you suspect your child has allergies. If your child experiences persistent symptoms like frequent sneezing, runny nose, itchy throat, or skin rashes, our allergist can help alleviate symptoms. Pursue immediate medical attention if you notice severe allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, swelling, or a drop in blood pressure.

What To Expect During an Allergy Test

If your child's pediatrician recommends allergy testing, here's what you can expect. First, it's crucial to understand why the testing is necessary. Allergies can cause symptoms like sneezing, itching, hives, or severe reactions like anaphylaxis. Our pediatrician may recommend allergy testing in Smyrna, Clarkston, or Lithonia, GA, when your child exhibits persistent or severe allergy-like symptoms or a family history of allergies, the pediatrician may recommend testing.

The most common allergy test for children is the skin prick test. During this painless procedure, a small amount of allergen extract is applied to your child's forearm or back, and their skin gets lightly pricked. If they're allergic, a small bump surrounded by redness will appear within 15-20 minutes.

A blood test (like a RAST or ImmunoCAP) measures specific antibodies to common allergens. Once we identify what your child is allergic to, the pediatrician will work with you to create an allergy management plan.

When To Consider Allergy Testing

Allergy testing for your child is advisable when recurrent, bothersome symptoms or a family history of allergies or asthma is present, as it helps pinpoint triggers and facilitates appropriate management.

Consider allergy testing for your child if they frequently experience symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, hives, wheezing, or digestive issues like vomiting or diarrhea after exposure to specific foods or environmental triggers. If your child's symptoms persist or recur, it's essential to rule out potential allergies.

Please explore our website to learn about the conditions we treat and the services provided. Consider allergy testing in Smyrna, Clarkston, or Lithonia, GA, if allergies impact your quality of life. To schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified doctors at Decatur Pediatric Group, call (404) 296-7133.