An Allergy Skin Test is an effective way to find out what you're actually allergic to.
I remember stories about getting allergy skin tests that involved shot and needles, poking and prodding. Currently doctors and specialists can offer much less evasive options.
- WebMD.com
Scratch test, also known as a puncture or prick test: First, your doctor or nurse will look at the skin on your forearm or back and clean it with alcohol. They'll mark and label areas on your skin with a pen. Then they'll place a drop of a potential allergen on each of those spots. Next, they'll prick the outer layer of your skin to let the allergen in. (It's not a shot, and it won't make you bleed.)
Intradermal test: After they look at and clean your skin, the doctor or nurse will inject a small amount of allergen just under your skin, similar to a tuberculosis test.
Patch test: Your doctor could put an allergen on a patch and then stick that on your arm or back.
The Mayo Clinic says, "In general, allergy skin tests are most reliable for diagnosing allergies to airborne substances, such as pollen, pet dander and dust mites. Skin testing may help diagnose food allergies. But because food allergies can be complex, you may need additional tests or procedures."
Before deciding on an Allergy Medication be sure to learn what your specific allergies are. You may be surprised, and the results of medication or allergy therapy will be more effective.
