Patch Testing in Alexandria, VA
Patch Testing Explained
More than 50 million people in the United States have allergies. Finding out what you are allergic to is an important first step to effective allergy treatment.
Today, allergy tests are more convenient and accurate than ever before. When combined with a detailed medical history, our team at DMV Allergy & Asthma Center can identify the specific things that trigger your allergic reactions.
If you’re ready for relief from your allergies, schedule an appointment with us today.
FAQs on Allergy Testing:
- How is allergy testing done?
Allergy testing can be done as skin tests or as blood tests, and there are two types of skin tests we can perform. During the first type of skin test, a drop of a suspected allergen is pricked or scratched on the surface of your back or forearm. We’ll test for many suspected allergens at the same time. If you are allergic to one of the tests, you will have redness and swelling at the test spot. Sometimes the doctor will recommend a second type of test. In this type, a small amount of the suspected allergen is injected into the skin of your arm or forearm, also testing for a few suspected allergens at once.
- How long does it take to get skin test results?
Skin testing is fast. For both types of skin tests, positive reactions usually appear within 20 minutes. Sometimes redness and swelling can occur several hours after skin testing. This usually disappears in 24 to 48 hours, but if you do have a delayed reaction, it’s important to report it to your doctor.
- Where can I get an allergy test?
When deciding where to get tested for food allergies, drug allergies, and environmental allergies, it’s important to look for a certified allergy specialist. These specialists are trained in the best methods for not only testing, but treating allergies if the tests come up positive.
- How long does patch testing take?
The entire patch testing process typically takes several days. Patches are applied on the first day, removed and examined on the second day, and the final interpretation is done on the third day.
- Does allergy testing have side-effects?
Any medical test involves some risk. In some patients, allergy symptoms might occur during the test. The most common symptoms are itching and swelling of the skin where the test was done. In rare cases, a more serious reaction can occur. With blood tests, you may experience pain or bleeding at the needle mark. Certain patients may also feel faint after having blood drawn. All of these potential side-effects are why it’s so important to have your allergy testing done by a specialist.
- Who can be tested for allergies?
Adults and children of any age can be tested for allergies. In fact, the sooner a child is tested, the sooner lifestyle changes can be made and routines can be adopted for accommodating the allergy throughout that child’s life.
