Your Allergy Testing Options Explained

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doctor holding a bandage on a child after receiving a shot

Allergy testing is a vital first step in truly treating allergy symptoms. Whether it’s pollen, pet dander, certain foods or environmental triggers, identifying your allergens allows your allergist to develop a clear and effective treatment plan. So, which testing method is right for you? This helpful overview will shed light on your allergy testing options.

  • Skin Testing

The “Skin Prick Test” is one of the most common and reliable methods for diagnosing allergies. During this test, small amounts of suspected allergens are applied to the skin, usually on the forearm or back. A tiny needle is then used to prick the skin, allowing the allergen to penetrate.

If you’re allergic to a substance, a “wheal” (a small raised bump similar to a mosquito bite) will appear at the test site within around 20 minutes.

Skin testing can be used to test up to 50 substances at once and is commonly used to identify:

  • Pollen
  • Mold
  • Pet dander
  • Dust mites
  • Foods

This allergy testing option is generally safe with minimal risks, though there is a slight chance of a more significant allergic reaction, such as anaphylaxis, for those with severe allergies. Your allergist will be prepared to monitor and treat you for any severe reactions should they arise.

Preparation: For accurate results, avoid antihistamines, certain antidepressants and some heartburn medications five to seven days before the test. Do not stop taking any prescribed medications without consulting with your doctor first.

  • Intradermal Skin Test

The intradermal skin test involves injecting a small amount of allergen just under the skin, typically on the forearm.

This method is more sensitive than the skin prick test and can detect weaker allergic reactions that a skin prick test might miss. Intradermal tests may be used to identify allergic responses to insect venom or penicillin. The test site is typically examined for around 15 minutes after injection.

Due to their more sensitive nature, skin injection tests are useful for revealing less obvious allergen responses, especially when a skin test reads negative but allergies are still suspected. However, this deeper allergen injection also slightly increases the risk of allergic reactions.

Preparation: Similar to the skin prick test—avoid antihistamines and certain medications before the test.

  • Patch Test

The patch test is used to identify contact allergies that may cause delayed skin reactions. Unlike other skin tests, this method involves applying patches containing allergens to the arm or back, which are left in place for 48 hours. The skin is then examined after 48 hours and again after 72-96 hours to check for any delayed allergic reactions.

Patch tests are commonly used to identify substances that can cause contact dermatitis/eczema. Patients may be exposed to 20 to 30 substances during their testing session, including:

  • Latex
  • Medications
  • Fragrances
  • Metals
  • And more

This allergy testing method is generally safe, though some patients may experience discomfort or localized skin irritation.

Preparation: Avoid sun exposure and topical corticosteroids on the back area for a few days before the test and inform your doctor about all current medications. 

  • Blood Tests

Blood tests, such as the Specific IgE test (formerly RAST), are used to measure the levels of allergen-specific antibodies (IgE) in your blood. During this test, blood is drawn, and the sample is sent to a medical lab for analysis.

This method offers little to no risk of allergic reactions and is often ideal for patients who cannot undergo skin testing, such as those with severe skin conditions (e.g., eczema) or those at risk for severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).

You may consider this allergy test if you experience:

Allergy blood testing often yields results in a few days to a couple of weeks.

Preparation: No specific preparation is usually required for this testing method. Speak with your local allergist to determine if any medications or lifestyle changes are necessary before your blood test.

  • Elimination Diet

The elimination diet is a different approach to allergy testing that involves removing specific foods from your diet that are suspected of causing an allergic reaction. These foods are then gradually reintroduced under medical supervision to identify which ones are responsible for the reaction.

The elimination diet method can be effective for diagnosing food allergies and intolerances but requires commitment and careful monitoring. When practiced properly, it can take several weeks to identify problematic foods as they are reintroduced.

Preparation: No specific preparation is needed, but a food diary may help highlight allergy patterns and potential triggers.

 

Discover Your Path to Allergy Relief

Find the allergy treatment plan that works for you. Family Allergy & Asthma’s board-certified allergists are ready to help you find relief with a tailored strategy based on your symptoms. Book your appointment today, and contact us to find an allergy and asthma specialist near you.

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 familyallergy.com, and follow Family Allergy & Asthma on Facebook, Instagram and X.