What to Expect from Allergic Asthma Testing

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Adult man completing a spirometry test to evaluate lung function for asthma diagnosis

 

Struggling with wheezing, coughing or shortness of breath…especially after being around pollen, dust or pets? You could be dealing with allergic asthma, a common form of asthma that’s triggered by allergens in your environment. But how can you be sure? The answer starts with the proper testing.

 

What is Allergic Asthma?

Allergic asthma is a type of asthma triggered by exposure to allergens like pollen, mold, pet dander or dust mites. When someone with allergic asthma breathes in one of these allergens, it can cause inflammation in the airways, leading to classic asthma symptoms such as:

  • Coughing
  • Wheezing
  • Chest tightness
  • Shortness of breath

If symptoms seem to flare up seasonally or after exposure to specific environments, it’s time to speak with a board-certified allergist.

 

What to Expect From Allergic Asthma Testing

Whether you’re experiencing symptoms for the first time or finally ready for answers after years of discomfort, understanding the testing process can help you take the next step toward better breathing.

 

Step 1: Medical History & Symptom Review

Your first visit will likely begin with a thorough conversation about your medical history and lifestyle. Your allergist may ask:

  • What triggers your symptoms? (e.g., pets, pollen, weather changes)
  • When do your symptoms tend to occur? Seasonally or year-round?
  • Do you have a family history of asthma, eczema, or allergies?
  • Have you used any asthma medications or allergy treatments?

These questions help guide the testing process and determine whether allergic asthma is likely or if something else could be causing your breathing issues.

 

Step 2: Allergy Testing

To determine what allergens may be triggering your asthma symptoms, your provider may recommend one or more of the following:

  • Skin Prick Test: This is the most common allergy test. Small amounts of potential allergens are applied to your skin (typically on your forearm or back) using a tiny needle. If you’re allergic, you’ll develop a small raised bump, similar to a mosquito bite, within 15-20 minutes.
  • Blood Test (Specific IgE Test): This test measures the amount of allergy-related antibodies (IgE) in your bloodstream. It may be used if you’re unable to stop certain medications or have a skin condition that could interfere with skin testing.

These tests help pinpoint which allergens are triggering your body’s immune response.

 

Step 3: Lung Function Testing

To confirm asthma, your allergist will likely perform a breathing test such as:

  • Spirometry: This test measures how much air you can breathe in and out and how quickly you can exhale. You’ll blow into a spirometer, which captures detailed measurements about your lung performance.
  • Methacholine Challenge Test: If spirometry results are unclear, this test may be used. Methacholine is a substance that can narrow airways in people with asthma. If your breathing changes after exposure, it supports an asthma diagnosis.
  • FeNO Test: This measures the level of nitric oxide in your breath, which can indicate inflammation in your lungs, a sign of asthma, especially allergic asthma.

 

How to Prepare for an Allergy and Asthma Test

To get the most accurate results, be sure to:

  1. Follow all instructions from your provider before testing.
  2. Avoid antihistamines for three to seven days before your allergy test (your provider will give you a specific timeframe).
  3. Let your provider know about any other medications you’re taking.
  4. Wear comfortable clothing, especially if you’ll be doing breathing tests.

 

What Happens After Testing?

Once your allergist has gathered results from your allergy and lung function tests, they’ll review your triggers and symptoms with you. If allergic asthma is confirmed, your provider will build a treatment plan tailored to your needs. 

This may include allergy avoidance strategies (like using HEPA filters or avoiding pets), inhalers or daily asthma medications, allergy treatments such as antihistamines or nasal sprays, or beginning immunotherapy (allergy shots) if your symptoms are severe or persistent.

If you’re looking for long-term relief and better control of your asthma symptoms, understanding your specific triggers is a powerful first step.

 

Don’t Guess, Get Tested

Asthma symptoms can be confusing and frustrating, especially when they overlap with allergy symptoms. Getting tested by an asthma specialist or board-certified allergist helps you understand your triggers and take control of your health with the proper treatment. Schedule an appointment today to explore customized treatment options that help you breathe easier and live better.

 

About Family Allergy & Asthma

Founded in 1979, Family Allergy & Asthma’s practice network of allergy and asthma specialists provides high-quality, reliable and lasting allergy relief throughout Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Tennessee, and includes affiliates Allergy & Asthma Specialists (AAS), Asthma and Allergy Associates of Florida (AAAF) and Arkansas Allergy and Asthma Clinic (AAAC). For more information, visit www.familyallergy.com, and follow Family Allergy & Asthma on Facebook, Instagram and X.