Allergy tests are useful in quickly determining which foods, medicines, or environmental particles are causing your allergic reaction. There are many tests available that NYC allergists rely on, such as skin prick and patch tests. Along with a medical exam, allergy testing is very accurate. However, it may not be necessary for everyone. The allergists at NY Allergy & Sinus Centers are here to help you determine if you need an allergy test.
Do You Have A Family History of Allergies?
The tendency to develop allergies is often hereditary. This means that if a parent suffers from allergies, there’s a high chance that the child will develop allergies too. The likelihood increases when both parents have allergies. However, just because the parents have allergies doesn’t mean the child will get them. Children may never develop allergies even though their parents have them. The best way to know for sure is to get an allergy test.
Our pediatric allergists are trained to administer allergy tests to adults and children of all ages, although you should wait until the child is at least 6 months old to request one. Allergy testing may be less accurate in very young children.
Do You Experience Allergy Symptoms Sporadically?
Allergy symptoms can emerge at any moment. If you experience symptoms sporadically, you’re probably allergic to a recurring substance. Chronic hives may be the result of environmental allergies. Swelling or itching after eating certain foods may indicate an allergy to a specific ingredient. An allergy test can determine which substance is causing your symptoms.
At NY Allergy & Sinus Centers, you can get your results in less than 20 minutes. After confirming your allergy, you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan that targets your symptoms and reduces your allergic reactions. We offer six allergy centers conveniently located in NYC.
Do You Want to Try A New Food That Contains A Major Allergen?
If you’ve never tried peanut butter, shellfish, or other foods containing any of the top 8 allergens, you may want to try them in a clinical setting. This type of allergy testing is called provocation testing. Provocation testing for allergies is a food challenge performed in a doctor’s office. This test poses severe risks, so one of our Board Certified Allergists will have allergy medication on hand and ensure your safety. You should never attempt a food challenge at home.
Do You Want to Start Allergy Treatment?
If you know your allergies already but want to start treatment, an allergist may need to confirm your allergy before starting treatment like immunotherapy (allergy shots). Immunotherapy is effective in treating allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, and stinging insect allergies. An allergist can perform a quick allergy test to determine the appropriate mixture for your allergy shots. These shots can significantly improve your allergies over time.
Visit NY Allergy & Sinus Centers to determine if you’re a candidate for immunotherapy. We have appointment times available six days a week and can even accommodate same-day appointments. Call (212) 686-4448 to get started today!