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Allergy Testing Q & A

Does my child need allergy testing?

Your child can develop an allergy at any age. Allergies may be caused by pollen, pet dander, chemicals, cleaning products, food, and substances, like latex. 

Symptoms that suggest an allergy include: 

  • Trouble breathing
  • Coughing
  • Skin rashes
  • Sneezing, congestion, or a runny nose
  • Itchy eyes
  • Nausea and stomach upset

You may notice these reactions are triggered by something in particular like food, cleaning products, or outdoor irritants. 

If your child is showing allergy symptoms, make an appointment at Tots N Teens Pediatrics today. Early treatment can help them manage uncomfortable symptoms and avoid a serious reaction.

What is involved in allergy testing?

How allergy testing is conducted depends on the suspected allergy. The providers at Tots N Teens Pediatrics might have your child undergo one of the following:

Skin prick test

During a skin prick test, a drop of an allergen is placed on the skin and then pricked with a needle. If an allergy to the substance exists, a swollen, reddish bump forms. 

Intradermal test

An intradermal test requires a small amount of allergen to be injected under the skin of your child’s arm. This type of test is usually done when penicillin or insect allergies are suspected. 

Blood test

When a skin prick test isn’t possible, a blood test can check your child’s blood for antibodies to different allergens. A blood test is often helpful in detecting food allergies. 

How does allergy testing lead to treatment?

If your child shows a reaction to one or more allergens, Dr. Kayass will create a treatment plan. 

The plan may include over-the-counter or prescription medications, allergen avoidance, and epinephrine in the case of extreme allergies that can cause anaphylaxis. 

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Your child’s immune system floods their body with chemicals that put them into shock. Their airways narrow, and their pulse weakens. Anaphylaxis requires immediate care.

Your child’s allergy treatment plan offers recommendations for treating your child should they come into contact with the allergen.

Call Tots N Teens Pediatrics if your child needs allergy testing, or use this online tool to schedule an appointment.