Allergy testing

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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.

Types of allergy tests

We offer several types of allergy tests, depending on the suspected allergies, their potential severity and initial test results.

Skin testing is the most common allergy test. We typically do a skin prick test first to check if you’re sensitive to various allergens.

A skin prick test involves placing small amounts of possible allergy-causing substances on your skin, usually on your forearm or back. Then, your provider slightly pricks the area, so the substance moves under your skin. Your provider watches your skin for signs of a reaction, such as swelling or redness.

Other skin allergy tests include:

Intradermal test, when your provider injects a small amount of a possible allergen under your skin
Patch test, when your provider applies a possible allergen to your skin for a prolonged time using a sticky patch
Skin scratch or scrape tests, when your provider applies the possible allergen and scrapes or scratches your skin

Blood tests check for levels of allergen-specific antibodies, called immunoglobulin E (IgE). Blood tests can also assess other levels, such as white blood cell count, to look for signs of infection or other problems. Your provider may recommend a blood allergy test if skin test results are unclear or if you may have a severe allergy.

A provocation test involves intentionally exposing you to possible allergens and closely monitoring you for a response. Your provider starts with a small amount and gradually increases exposure if you don’t experience a reaction.

The exposure method varies depending on whether you may have a food, respiratory or contact (skin) allergy. Your provider may recommend a provocation test if other tests haven’t found the allergen or if tests have had conflicting results.

A diet allergy test, also called an elimination diet, is a way to check for food intolerances, food sensitivities, or medication allergies. The test involves avoiding certain foods or medications for a few weeks to see if your symptoms improve. Your provider may have you reintroduce the suspected allergen at a future appointment to confirm the allergy.

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.