Skin Prick Test Allergy Testing
Skin Prick Test or Allergy Testing
Allergy testing is a diagnostic test to identify different allergens, like moulds, bee stings, pet dander, and peanuts, which can cause allergies. During this test, allergens are injected into the skin, and then a response in the form of a wheal (raised mark), rash or other reactions is checked.
What is allergy testing?
Sometimes, we get symptoms like skin rashes, urticaria, wheezing, allergic rhinitis due to hypersensitivity of our immune system to certain substances capable of triggering such responses in our body, called as allergens. One could have allergies to a variety of substances like moulds, grasses, pollen and pet dander. Some may have food allergies to substances like peanuts, milk, egg and other things.
Why do healthcare providers perform allergy tests?
In patients who have severe allergic symptoms, life threatening reactions like urticaria, when the allergic symptoms are frequent, or in cases of poorly controlled asthma, your pediatric pulmonologist may advise an allergy testing to identify the trigger or allergen.
In case the allergen is identified, one could take the adequate precautions to avoid contact with it, and this will result in symptom control.
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction which is potentially life-threatening. Symptoms could be hives or swelling, breathing difficulty, fall in blood pressure resulting in shock. Allergy testing is used to identify the cause of severe reaction. In case of anaphylaxis, it is advisable to always carry an epinephrine or adrenaline auto injector or Epipen for immediate relief of symptoms.
How do I know if I need an allergy test?
Allergy test is advised if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Itchy, watery eyes.
- Asthma
- Chronic or recurrent cough
- Breathing difficulty
- Wheezing
- Sneezing or nasal allergy
- Runny nose
- Sleep disturbance or snoring or mouth breathing