Allergy Testing Specialist
Allergies are one of the most common chronic health conditions in America today. If you think you have allergy symptoms such as hives, rashes, a runny nose, or watery eyes, contact the team at Faith Medical Center in Charlotte and Mooresville, North Carolina, to schedule allergy testing. Allergy testing confirms that your symptoms are due to an allergic reaction and identifies the specific substance causing your allergies. Call or make an appointment online today.
What is allergy testing?
Allergy testing helps your doctor identify the specific allergens that trigger your allergic symptoms. At Faith Medical Center, the team offers blood tests and skin tests to screen for particular allergies. What are the signs that I have allergies?
If you have allergies, your body may react with a wide range of symptoms. Common allergy symptoms include: • Itchy, watery eyes
• A runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Cough
• Hives and rashes
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Swelling
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
Allergies can emerge at any time, and your symptoms may evolve or become more severe. If you think you might have allergies, you should make an appointment to talk to a member of the health care team at Faith Medical Center and get tested. Confirming your diagnosis and identifying the specific substances that trigger your allergies are the first steps toward effective allergy management plans.
What should I expect during allergy testing?
Faith Medical Center offers blood tests and skin tests to identify allergies. During a blood test, a technician draws a vial of blood and tests it for the proteins that indicate specific allergies. During a skin test, your provider applies a small amount of a diluted allergen to your skin, then observes your skin for signs of an allergic reaction. Your provider may test for several allergens at the same time, creating a line or grid of test sites.
How can I manage my allergies?
Once you know the details of your allergies, your provider can help you create an allergy management plan. They may prescribe medication and recommend lifestyle modifications to control your allergic reactions. Avoidance is a crucial part of many allergy plans. For example, if eggs, shellfish, or tree nuts trigger your symptoms, you can take steps to avoid eating or coming into contact with those substances. You may also take oral antihistamines or use topical antihistamine creams to reduce your allergic reactions. Another option to consider is immunotherapy. Immunotherapy also referred to as allergy shots introduces gradually increasing amounts of an allergen into your system over 18-24 months or longer, which causes your body to produce the antibodies needed to control and eventually eliminate your allergic reaction. If you’re concerned about allergies, call Faith Medical Center or make an appointment online today.