{"id":245,"date":"2021-04-15T15:06:37","date_gmt":"2021-04-15T22:06:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nesilv.fm1.dev\/allergy-sinus-care\/allergy-testing\/"},"modified":"2021-07-12T15:40:15","modified_gmt":"2021-07-12T22:40:15","slug":"allergy-testing","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/nesilv.com\/allergist\/allergy-testing\/","title":{"rendered":"Allergy Testing"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [{\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"What Is a Skin Prick Test? \",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"A skin prick test is the most common form of allergy testing. This test involves placing a small drop of an allergen extract on your skin. A needle is then used to prick the skin underneath the drop; this allows for a small amount of solution to enter just below the surface of the skin. After 15 minutes, any swelling or redness is measured and, depending on the size, is considered a positive reaction. An intradermal skin test is completed next. An intradermal wheal, or bleb, is injected directly under the top layer of skin. After 15 minutes any reactions are measured and classified as either positive or negative.\"\n    }\n  }, {\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"What Is a Patch Test?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"A patch test is more often used to identify allergens that cause skin rashes. Patch tests typically take several days to process and function differently. \"\n    }\n}, {\n \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"What is Immunotherapy?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"People who suffer from allergies that don\u2019t respond to medical treatment may find relief from immunotherapy, a method of building tolerance to an allergen by introducing it to the body in small doses over a period of time. It is usually given as injections (allergy shots), but can also be taken orally. When ingested, it is known as sublingual immunotherapy, or allergy drops.\"\n    }\n  }, {\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"How Do Allergy Shots Work?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"Allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy) are the most common form of immunotherapy. They can be used as a long-term treatment for seasonal, indoor and insect sting allergies. They work by getting your body used to the allergen slowly, with the hopes that you will develop an immunity or tolerance to the allergen. The process takes place in two phases, the build-up phase and the maintenance phase. The build-up phase involves a small amount of the allergen being injected into the upper arm once or twice a week for a few months. The dosage is gradually increased at each visit. The length of the build-up phase depends entirely on your body\u2019s reaction. Once you have reached the effective dose, typically the most you can handle without showing symptoms, the maintenance phase will begin. The dosage is no longer increased at each visit and the number of shots is decreased. The maintenance phase involves an allergy shot once every month for three to five years. \"\n }\n  }, {\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"Are There Any Risks with Allergy Shots?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"Since allergy shots contain a substance you are allergic to, there are some risks involved. Swelling and redness usually develop at the site of injection but are quick to clear up. Sneezing, nasal congestion and hives may develop as well as more severe reactions such as wheezing or chest-tightness. Anaphylaxis, the most serious reaction, rarely occurs.\"\n}\n  }, {\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"What Can I Expect from Allergy Shots?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"Allergy symptoms will not improve overnight; symptoms will typically improve over the first year of treatment and continue to improve over the next few years. The shots may even decrease symptoms for other allergens and prevent new allergies from developing.\"\n    }\n  }, {\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"How Are Pulmonary Function Tests?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"Pulmonary function tests are used to determine how well your lungs are working. They are typically completed in addition to allergy tests. The three main tests are spirometry, plethysmography and diffusion capacity. \"\n }\n }\n ]\n  }\n<\/script>\n\n\n\n<p>The best way to treat your allergy symptoms is to schedule allergy testing to determine their exact cause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2>Skin Prick Testing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Skin tests are the preferred allergy test because they are safe, affordable and they provide accurate results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3>How Does a Skin Test Procedure Work?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"alignright size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"854\" src=\"https:\/\/nesilv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/iStock-626814590-optimized-scaled-1-1280x854.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-753\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nesilv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/iStock-626814590-optimized-scaled-1-1280x854.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/nesilv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/iStock-626814590-optimized-scaled-1-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/nesilv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/iStock-626814590-optimized-scaled-1-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/nesilv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/iStock-626814590-optimized-scaled-1.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>In prick testing, several drops of a solution containing the suspected allergen are placed on the surface of the skin. A needle is used to prick or scratch the skin where the drops are placed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your body is allergic to this substance, the immune system will respond. The result is swelling and redness on the skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3>How Fast Are the Results of a Skin Prick Test?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This allergy testing procedure is performed in-office and should take no longer than 20 to 40 minutes. Skin prick test results are available before you leave the doctor\u2019s office because skin prick tests are visual. With a prick test, an allergist can tell whether you are allergic to an allergen based on how your body responds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Prick testing is safe and reliable. This test may cause minor discomfort, swelling or itching. It is most often used to test for allergies to pollen, mold, dust mites, pet dander and food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3>Skin Prick Test vs. Patch Test<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A patch test is more often used to identify allergens that cause skin rashes. Patch tests typically take several days to process and function differently. Where a skin prick test introduces a tiny amount of an allergen into the skin, a patch test holds a liquid containing the allergen on top of the skin using a specialized patch. After 48 hours, the patient can return to the allergist, who will then mark the test sites and a third appointment may occur another 48 hours later before final results can be determined.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2>Intradermal Test<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An intradermal test is used when a skin prick test does not produce an allergic reaction. An intradermal wheal, or bleb, is injected directly under the top layer of skin. After 15 minutes, any reactions are measured and classified as either positive or negative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2>Blood Testing for Allergies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A blood test measures how much of an allergen-specific antibody, called <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aaaai.org\/Tools-for-the-Public\/Allergy,-Asthma-Immunology-Glossary\/Immunoglobulin-E-(IgE)-Defined\" data-type=\"URL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">immunoglobulin E<\/a> (IgE), is in your blood. The more allergen-specific IgE in your blood, the more likely you are to be allergic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The most common blood test is a radioallergosorbent (RAST) test. It screens for common allergy triggers such as pollen, mold, dust mites and pet dander. RAST is the preferred testing method for infants and children. It is less expensive and results take longer since an outside lab is involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Blood tests are typically used to confirm the results of a skin test; they may also be used instead of skin tests if a serious allergy makes skin testing unsafe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2>When Is Blood Testing Preferred Over Skin Testing?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Some medications and conditions make blood testing preferable because blood testing doesn\u2019t expose a patient to allergens. Medicines on that list include antihistamines, steroids and antidepressants. People with life-threatening allergies, skin conditions, asthma or heart conditions may all be better candidates for a blood test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2>Pulmonary Function Tests<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Pulmonary function tests are used to determine how well your lungs are working. They are typically completed in addition to allergy tests. The three main tests are spirometry, plethysmography and diffusion capacity. Spirometry measures the amount of air you breathe in and out by breathing into a machine. Plethysmography measures your lung volume, or the amount of gas in your lungs, by having you stand in a small booth and breathe into a mouthpiece. The diffusion capacity test evaluates how well the small air sacs within your lungs work by having you breathe in certain gases and breathing out into a machine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2>Food Allergies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Your immune system\u2019s primary goal is to keep your body healthy. In the case of food allergies, your immune system mistakes harmless food proteins as a threat and attacks. Large amounts of immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody, are produced. IgE causes the release of histamine and other chemicals, which can trigger the symptoms of an allergic reaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3>How Are Food Allergies Diagnosed?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Food allergies can be diagnosed through a blood test. A blood test is used to measure the amount of allergen-specific IgE antibodies present in the blood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If blood testing is negative, an oral food challenge can also be performed in order to rule out a food allergy. This test takes place in the clinic where you will be under constant medical supervision. This ensures if you experience an allergic reaction it can be treated immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The food in question is ingested in small amounts and the challenge is stopped at the first sign of a reaction. After a few hours, if no reaction has occurred, you are not allergic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3>How Are Food Allergies Treated?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If the cause of the allergy symptoms cannot be determined, an elimination diet is recommended. Potential trigger foods are eliminated from your diet for a few weeks. If the symptoms resolve, the eliminated food is most likely the culprit. To make sure, you may be asked to reintroduce the food back into your diet to see if the symptoms return.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A food allergy should not be taken lightly. The best way to stay safe is to know exactly what can cause a reaction and to have a treatment plan in place. The doctors at <span class=\"company-name \">Nevada Ear + Sinus Institute<\/span>&nbsp;have the tests needed to determine what you are allergic to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><p class=\"site-cta\">Call <span class=\"company-name \">Nevada Ear + Sinus Institute<\/span> at <a href=\"tel:+17027357668\" class=\"phone \"> <span class=\"phNum\">(702) 735-7668<\/span><\/a> for more information or to schedule an appointment. <div class=\"nvd-cutout-icon-wrapper\"><span class=\"cut-out\"><svg class=\"logo-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" width=\"24px\" height=\"24px\" viewbox=\"0 0 121 121\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\r\n  <path d=\"M60.0224 5.0457e-05C37.1446 -0.0295484 16.2448 12.9653 6.15073 33.4959C-3.94338 54.0265 -1.47144 78.5124 12.5224 96.6112L34.1336 96.6112C44.3342 96.4594 52.5236 88.1463 52.5224 77.9445L52.5224 71.6667C49.1495 74.5534 44.8509 76.1309 40.4113 76.1112C32.8184 76.0795 25.9871 71.4913 23.0857 64.4745C20.1843 57.4577 21.7803 49.3849 27.1335 44L28.1336 43.0556C27.4181 42.5614 26.7487 42.0036 26.1336 41.3889C21.4572 36.2934 21.543 28.4418 26.3295 23.4497C31.1161 18.4576 38.9572 18.042 44.2447 22.5C45.371 20.0063 46.9537 17.7452 48.9113 15.8334C53.2872 11.457 59.2225 8.99837 65.4113 8.99837C71.6001 8.99837 77.5354 11.457 81.9113 15.8334C88.5853 22.5067 90.582 32.5434 86.9701 41.2629C83.3583 49.9824 74.8493 55.6674 65.4113 55.6667C63.3457 55.6701 61.2895 55.3897 59.3002 54.8334L59.3002 77.9445C59.8425 87.9037 68.0762 95.7013 78.0502 95.7013C88.0242 95.7013 96.2579 87.9037 96.8002 77.9445C97.1195 73.0262 94.6768 68.3386 90.4628 65.7826C86.2487 63.2267 80.9628 63.2267 76.7488 65.7826C72.5347 68.3386 70.092 73.0262 70.4113 77.9445C70.4113 82.1787 73.8438 85.6112 78.078 85.6112C82.3122 85.6112 85.7447 82.1787 85.7447 77.9445C85.7154 76.7602 84.7623 75.8071 83.578 75.7778C82.4031 75.808 81.4665 76.7692 81.4669 77.9445C81.4669 79.8161 79.9496 81.3334 78.078 81.3334C77.1696 81.3483 76.2933 80.9978 75.6457 80.3607C74.9981 79.7235 74.6334 78.853 74.6336 77.9445C74.6336 73.0046 78.6381 69 83.578 69C88.5179 69 92.5224 73.0046 92.5224 77.9445C92.0485 85.5896 85.71 91.5474 78.0502 91.5474C70.3904 91.5474 64.0519 85.5896 63.578 77.9445C63.1878 70.5376 66.9174 63.52 73.2748 59.6993C79.6322 55.8786 87.5793 55.8786 93.9367 59.6993C100.294 63.52 104.024 70.5376 103.634 77.9445C103.625 89.4792 95.8898 99.5781 84.7558 102.592C73.6219 105.606 61.849 100.788 56.0224 90.8334L55.9113 90.6667C55.9113 90.7223 55.8558 90.7778 55.8002 90.8334C51.3707 98.3853 43.3835 103.144 34.6335 103.444L18.6891 103.444C38.2261 122.055 67.7826 125.334 90.9243 111.46C114.066 97.5862 125.1 69.9712 117.891 43.97C110.683 17.9687 87.0045 -0.0224246 60.0224 5.0457e-05\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" \/>\r\n  <path d=\"M3.45297 20.5C5.69579 22.7351 8.73107 23.9931 11.8974 24C16.7358 23.9896 21.0945 21.0745 22.952 16.6069C24.8095 12.1392 23.8022 6.99317 20.3974 3.55556L20.3974 3.55556C18.1536 1.2813 15.0922 0.000728379 11.8974 0C7.07087 0.0634513 2.74747 2.99972 0.909001 7.46284C-0.929469 11.926 0.0714571 17.0555 3.45297 20.5\" transform=\"translate(28.513916 45.277832)\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" \/>\r\n  <path d=\"M10.7222 10.7222C11.8887 9.53596 12.5464 7.94146 12.5556 6.27778C12.5524 4.61291 11.8937 3.01626 10.7222 1.83333C9.53596 0.666853 7.94146 0.00912196 6.27778 0C2.81066 0 0 2.81066 0 6.27778C0 9.7449 2.81066 12.5556 6.27778 12.5556C7.94146 12.5464 9.53596 11.8887 10.7222 10.7222\" transform=\"translate(29.133545 25.888916)\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" \/>\r\n  <path d=\"M4.83335 28.2481L4.83335 28.2481C10.4138 33.8435 19.171 34.7148 25.7445 30.3285C32.3181 25.9423 34.8751 17.5216 31.8505 10.2207C28.8259 2.91987 21.0629 -1.2254 13.3134 0.322223C5.5638 1.86984 -0.0115332 8.67882 1.79156e-05 16.5814C0.00641242 20.9561 1.74408 25.1505 4.83335 28.2481L4.83335 28.2481\" transform=\"translate(48.855713 15.751953)\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" \/>\r\n<\/svg>\r\n<\/span><\/div><\/p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The best way to treat your allergy symptoms is to schedule allergy testing to determine their exact cause. Skin Prick Testing Skin tests are the preferred allergy test because they are safe, affordable and they provide accurate results. How Does a Skin Test Procedure Work? In prick testing, several drops of a solution containing the&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":243,"menu_order":6,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_titles_title":"","_seopress_titles_desc":"","_seopress_robots_index":"","schema":"","fname":"","lname":"","position":"","credentials":"","placeID":"","no_match":false,"name":"","company":"","review":"","address":"","city":"","state":"","zip":"","lat":"","lng":"","phone1":"","phone2":"","fax":"","mon1":"","mon2":"","tue1":"","tue2":"","wed1":"","wed2":"","thu1":"","thu2":"","fri1":"","fri2":"","sat1":"","sat2":"","sun1":"","sun2":"","hours-note":""},"service_tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/nesilv.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/245"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/nesilv.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/nesilv.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nesilv.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nesilv.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=245"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/nesilv.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/245\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nesilv.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/243"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/nesilv.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=245"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"service_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nesilv.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/service_tags?post=245"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}