| An
allergy skin test is used to identify the substances that
are causing your allergy symptoms. It involves applying an
extract of an allergen to your skin, scratching or pricking
the skin to allow exposure, and then evaluating the skin's
reaction.
First, a doctor or nurse will examine the
skin on your forearm and clean it with alcohol. (Sometimes,
this test is performed on an area of the back.) Areas on your
skin are then marked with a pen to identify each of the allergens
that will be tested.
A drop of an abstract made from each allergen--such
as pollen, animal dander, or mold spore--is placed on the
corresponding mark on your skin. A small disposable pricking
device is then used to ensure that the extract enters the
outer layer of the skin, called the epidermis.
The skin prick is not a shot and doesn't cause
bleeding. Sometimes, instead of the skin-pricking method,
a small amount of the allergen is injected just under the
skin.
The areas of the skin that become red and
itchy indicate the substances that trigger a defensive response
by your immune system. The skin reaction may be itchy, but
most people say it doesn't hurt much.
After the test, the extracts and ink marks
will be cleaned off your skin with alcohol. A mild cortisone
cream will be applied to your arm (or back) to relieve any
itching that may occur at the sites of the skin pricks.
Keep the tested area on your arm uncovered
when you go home. Your doctor or allergist will use the results
of the test to help develop a management plan for you.
To prepare for the test: Antihistamines stop
allergic reactions and should not be taken for at least 48
to 72 hours before the test.
Your doctor will give you a list of medications
to avoid before the test, since there are other medications
(such as tricyclic antidepressants) that will interfere with
the test. Give the healthcare provider who is going to perform
the skin test a list of all the medications you are taking,
including over-the-counter ones. Talk to your doctor about
discontinuing your prescription medications prior to the test.
Allergic rhinitis is typically a lifelong
condition. The best way to control your allergies is to identify
the allergens that trigger your symptoms and then take steps
to limit your exposure to them.
Air conditioning reduces pollen counts indoors
by more than 90 percent. Face masks, similar to what surgeons
wear, can significantly reduce the amount of allergen inhaled
when outdoors or while doing yard work. You can learn more
about avoiding allergens in our section on managing hay fever.
Living
With Spring Hayfever |
Supplements
for Hay Fever | Allergies
- Quality Of Life |
Allergies
- Allergy Shots| Allergy
skin test | Avoiding
allergens | Alternative
to hayfever medication |
Why
does an allergic reaction occur? |
Allergies
And Clean Air | Benefits
Of Chamomile Tea |
Ten
Facts About Hayfever |
