If you experience sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose, hives, or any other allergy symptoms, consider allergy testing at Lakewood Primary Care and Wellness in Dallas. Identifying your specific allergens is the first step toward relief through treatments like immunotherapy, and the best way to do this is with allergy testing. Call the office or schedule an appointment online to start eliminating your allergy symptoms.

Allergy Testing Q&A

What are the different types of allergies?

Allergies occur when your immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless substance as a threat. This causes an immune response whenever you encounter the allergen.

Common allergens include:

• Contact allergens: Poison ivy, Soap, Jewelry, Latex
• Airborne allergens: Pollen, Mold, Dust, Weeds, Dust mites
• Insect stings: Bees, Wasps, or other insects
• Pet allergies: Saliva and dander
• Medications: Penicillin is the most common
• Food allergies: Peanuts, Tree nuts, Wheat, Soy, Fish, Shellfish, Eggs, Milk

What symptoms may signal an allergy?

The symptoms depend on the allergen. For instance, if you're allergic to pollen, you may experience nasal and eye irritation. Common allergy symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Itchy nose, eyes, or mouth
• Swollen tongue or face
• Runny or congested nose
• Swollen, watery eyes
• Rash or hives
• Wheezing
• Itchy, dry, scaling, or oozing skin
• Itchy, swollen area from insect stings
• Upset stomach, diarrhea, cramping (food allergies)

When should you get tested for allergies?

Consider allergy testing if you experience:

• Chronic sinus infections, nasal congestion, or breathing difficulty
• Allergy symptoms for several months of the year
• Allergies interfering with daily life
• Shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest tightness
• Asthma attacks that are worsening or becoming more frequent

What types of allergy testing are available?

Before performing an allergy test, your provider at Lakewood Primary Care and Wellness will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and conduct a thorough physical exam. If you have a rash or hives, a close skin inspection can help rule out other conditions.

If an allergy is suspected, the following tests can identify the specific allergens responsible for your symptoms:

• Patch testing: Small amounts of allergens are applied to your skin under an adhesive coating.
• Skin prick testing: After small amounts of allergens are placed on your skin, the area is pricked to allow the allergen to enter your skin.
• Blood testing: Blood tests can detect allergens when skin tests may not be safe or if you have a skin condition that interferes with skin testing.

Ready to take control of your allergies? Contact Lakewood Primary Care and Wellness today!