Allergy Testing
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Allergy Testing In San Antonio, Texas
Allergies should not be controlling your lifestyle. When you are tired of fighting against swollen eyes, a drippy nose, and endless sneezing, please make an appointment with CareFront Medical Group, located in San Antonio, Texas. Our allergy specialists are committed to assisting you in allergy testing, and provide symptom-free living from allergies. We provide convenient timing for appointments and various tests to meet your requirements. Contact us today to take control of your allergies and improve your quality of life!
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If you’re ready to take the next step toward better health, locate our allergy testing center nearest to you and schedule an appointment today.
Understanding Allergies
An allergic response is when your body’s defense system reacts to substances as harmful, even though they may be non-toxic to others. Pollen, dust mites, pet hair, some foods, and many more are examples of these substances called allergens, that can be highly differentiated. Nonetheless, when you come into contact with these allergens, chemicals like histamine are released by the immune system leading to symptoms such as sneezing, itching, hives, swellings, or the worst condition of all, anaphylaxis.
The Importance of Allergy Testing:
Knowing what you are specifically allergic to is important to managing and treating your allergy. Allergy tests can identify what causes your symptoms so you will know how to minimize your exposure or avoid them completely. CareFront offers various types of allergy tests designed for specific needs.
Our Allergy Testing Services:
- Skin Prick Test: This standard allergy test involves applying a very small amount of allergen extract to the skin and then pricking or scratching the skin's surface; if you are allergic to it, you will probably get a reaction such as swelling, redness, or itching at the site within 15-20 minutes.
- Blood Test (RAST Test): This is also referred to as a radioallergosorbent test (RAST), which is done by taking a blood sample and testing for specific allergens' antibodies in the blood. However, it cannot be as instant as skin prick tests; certain allergens may not be appropriate for skin testing or may involve people with different types of skin.
- Patch Test: Patch screening is mainly used to identify complications of contact dermatitis, an allergic reaction caused by direct contact of the skin with substances causing allergies. Patches containing small amounts of different probable allergens are then positioned on the skin for some time to determine whether there will be any response.
- Elimination Diet: If you think you may have food allergies or sensitivities, your doctor might recommend an elimination diet. In this approach, some foods that may be potential triggers of allergic reactions are systematically removed from patients' meals and then introduced into their diets under close observation for alarming symptoms.
- Inhaled Allergen Test: This test is aimed at finding out whether the patient suffers from airborne allergens such as pollens carried by air, dust mites, molds, or pet dander. We can isolate those responsible for the allergy by exposing the patient to minimal doses of these allergens and monitoring their response patterns during this process.
What to Expect During Your Allergy Testing Appointment
During the consultation, your doctor will discuss your medical past, symptoms, and lifestyle. This will lead to a recommendation of the best allergy test(s) to which you should be subjected.
Skin Test:
- Firstly, the testing area is cleaned with alcohol, usually the forearm.
- Little amounts of each allergen are put on the surface of the skin.
- The skin is slightly pricked or scratched to introduce allergens.
- For about 15-20 minutes, the site is observed for any reaction.
Blood Test:
- A blood sample is taken from your arm.
- This blood sample is sent to a laboratory for further analysis.
- Typically, results can be obtained within several days after conducting this test.
After Your Allergy Testing
When your tests return, your doctor will discuss them with you. They will tell you which things you are allergic to and how badly it affects you. From the results of these tests, they will then devise a plan that specifically addresses how these allergies might be managed:
- Drugs: Antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids can all help control allergy symptoms.
- Allergy injections (immunotherapy): This therapy involves receiving very small doses of allergens over time to desensitize or decrease the body's reaction to substances that provoke such conditions.
- Avoiding allergens: Identifying and avoiding triggers is important in managing allergies. CareFront doctors will provide advice on reducing exposure to allergens.
Why Choose CareFront for Allergy Testing?
- Expertise: Expertise is prioritized among our experienced team of allergy specialists and health care professionals. We are devoted to ensuring you receive accurate diagnoses and are given personalized treatment plans that suit your needs.
- Comprehensive Approach: We use various testing techniques to conduct an extensive analysis to determine the exact cause of your allergy.
- Patient-Centered Care: Our primary focus is your comfort in our facility as well as in your medical care.
- Integrated Treatment Options: Alongside allergy tests, we offer other medical solutions like allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots), medication management, and lifestyle recommendations that help manage allergies.
FAQs About Allergy Testing:
Do I need a recommendation to consult an allergy specialist at CareFront?
In most cases, you won’t require a recommendation to see an allergy specialist at CareFront. Nevertheless, it is always advisable to confirm through one’s family doctor.
What if I'm scared of needles?
Blood tests are a good option for people who fear needles.Additionally, skin tests generally do not have pain sympathize with you. We will ensure that the testing process causes minimal discomfort.
How much does allergy testing cost?
The cost for allergy tests depend on the kind performed and your insurance status. To find out if you are covered for allergies by your insurance company, we recommend calling them directly. CareFront can also help to estimate costs before you come in for your appointment.