Allergy Tests
Allergy testing is the first step to diagnosing the source of your nasal allergy symptoms and start you on the path of relief. The Allergy Center of Decatur ENT tests for allergic reactions to seasonal or perennial airborne allergens including dog and cat dander, mold, dust mite, pollen, and more.
What is an allergy test?
An allergy test is a procedure administered by one of our many talented and qualified doctors. Allergy testing can include a combination of skin-pricks on the arms, intradermal skin testing, or blood (RAST) testing.
Purpose of an allergy test:
- Determine if allergy-like symptoms are caused by an allergy or other conditions such as nonallergic rhinitis, colds, and other viruses that can cause symptoms similar to those of nasal allergies
- Determine if allergy-like symptoms are caused by an allergy or other Irritants and pollutants, such as strong odors of smoke, certain medications, and weather changes, which can also trigger symptoms
- Determine if allergy-like symptoms are caused by a chronic allergy or chronic infection
- Determine if allergies are seasonal (symptoms that appear at certain times of the year) or perennial (symptoms that are active year-round)
- Determine allergy triggers as accurately as possible
- Determine if other health problems, such as asthma, are occurring with allergies
We then review your health history and start an initial examination at our allergy center. This initial step may be accompanied with X-rays and in-office computed tomography (CT) scan to investigate for sinus infection and assess nasal and sinus bone structure and drainage passages.
When you visit our allergy center and request allergy testing, our doctors will evaluate the results of these tests to determine the cause of your symptoms and provide an accurate diagnosis. The resulting diagnosis will target the appropriate treatment to help eliminate or minimize symptoms.