Allergy testing

Allergy symptoms, from constant discomfort to sudden reactions, can develop from a range of substances. At Atrium Health Floyd and Harbin Clinic, our providers offer allergy testing to identify the cause and help you find relief.

What is allergy testing?

Allergy tests are methods to check for substances (allergens) that trigger an allergic response. Allergy testing can also determine if something else may cause your symptoms. For example, having an infection, eating contaminated food or taking certain medications can cause symptoms that look like allergic reactions but aren’t.

Allergy testing uses and benefits

You may need allergy tests if you experience signs or symptoms of an allergic reaction. The results help you and your provider pinpoint the cause and find the right treatment.  

Tests can check for food, seasonal or indoor allergies. Common allergens include:

• Dust
• Food
• Insect venom
• Medication
• Mold
• Pet dander
• Pollen

What to expect after allergy testing 

Some allergy tests, such as skin or provocation tests, reveal the cause of your allergies immediately. Other tests may take longer to provide answers.

For example, you usually receive blood test results within a few days. An elimination diet, however, may take a few weeks to find any possible allergen.

When you and your provider have allergy test results, you discuss how to manage the allergy. Your provider explains your treatment options, such as medication, diet changes and prevention strategies.

Allergy testing risks and side effects

Because some tests expose you to an allergen, you may have allergy symptoms. Symptoms vary with the allergy type but commonly include itchiness, redness, a rash, a sore throat or stomach pain.

Skin and provocation allergy tests, in particular, can cause noticeable allergic reactions. If you’re at risk of a severe allergic reaction, we test and wait for the results under medical supervision.