Allergies are occurring more often than ever before. Both children and adults are developing new allergies, even if they weren’t allergic to the substance before. Allergy testing can be helpful in determining what substances are causing the person problems. The only way to know for sure if you have an allergy is through testing, including these 5 simple methods.
Keep a Log of Your Symptoms
If you suspect you have an allergy, keep a log of any symptoms you experience. You should soon be able to detect any patterns and these will help you identify any triggers you might have. When you go for allergy testing in Ramsgate and Streatham, this information can help your clinician with your diagnosis.
Skin Prick Test
Also known as a scratch test or puncture test, a skin prick test is used to test for immediate allergic reactions to several different substances at once. Substances can include dust mites, foods, pet dander, mould, and pollen.
It’s a quick procedure that shouldn’t cause any major discomfort. A needle is used to gently penetrate the skin’s surface to apply the substances. After about 15 minutes, your skin will be checked for any allergic reactions.
Patch Testing
If your clinician suspects you have a condition called contact dermatitis, they may suggest a patch test. With a patch test, small amounts of known allergens like latex, metals, fragrances, and preservatives are applied to the skin on a strip of non-allergic tape. After 48 hours, the patches are removed and your skin is assessed for signs of allergic reactions.
Food Challenge Test
During a food challenge test, small amounts of foods are given to you in a controlled, supervised environment. You will be monitored to see if you have an allergy to a certain type of food or whether you are no longer allergic to a previous allergen.
You’ll be completely safe during this type of test as we are well-equipped to support food allergy testing in Bromley, Streatham, and Sydenham.
Blood Tests
During an allergy blood test, your blood will be analysed for the presence of IgE (allergy) antibodies. To do this, your blood will be exposed to various substances to see if they create any allergy antibodies.
Allergy Testing from Touchwood Pharmacy
Book an appointment online today with Touchwood Pharmacy for affordable and convenient allergy testing in Sydenham, allergy testing in Walsall, and food allergy testing in Camberley, Northolt, and Ramsgate.
