Overview of Most Common Allergy Tests

Allergies occur when the foreign elements that enter the human body and the immune system react to it. Different people have different types of allergy, which may be genetic or developed. It all primarily depends on the sensitivity of the immune system and what substance does it react to. The trigger substances are different for different people, and while some people are allergic to dust, many others are allergic to smell, any food item, or anything else.

The common allergic reactions include swollen eyes, reddish eyes, stomach ache, loose motions, itchy rash, stuffy nose, and so on. Some of the symptoms of allergy can be misunderstood as stand alone, but if it is persistent or happens as a result of any specific exposure or consumptions, it should be noted and reported to your physician for proper diagnosis. Here are some common allergic tests you need to know about.

Skin Prick Test

In the skin prick test, the physician uses a specific type of allergen and infuses it in the body of the patient at different positions. The lancet is then used to prick your skin and see how it reacts. The lancet can also be dipped in food, and if you are allergic to it, the skin will become red, or a bump would appear in the affected region.

Intradermal Test

In the intradermal test, the allergen is infused in the skin using prick. In this test, the intradermal injection is used to infuse the allergen and not the injection. The intradermal test is used mostly when the skin prick test has not been able to get the results.

Scrape Test

The scrape test is used when the results of the above two tests are not clear. In the scrape test, a small portion of the skin is removed and brushed with the allergen. It helps in getting the response from the surface at a faster rate. The only problem with this test is that it cannot be controlled how much allergen is injected or comes in contact with the skin. One can get the allergy testing Naperville IL done at different clinics here.

Spirometry

If the physician detects any lung infection or problems with the respiratory system, then the spirometry test is suggested. It is mostly prescribed when the physician identifies any symptoms of asthma. In this test, the patient is asked to inhale deeply and then exhale. The amount of air blown is measured through a device and is repeated several times to ensure that the results are accurate.

Drug Challenge

Many people are allergic to certain types of drug, and it is essential to know which drug one is allergic to. Small doses of the drug that a person is avoiding is consumed to know if they are able to tolerate it or not. There is a specific period of observation after every dose to see how the body reacts. These are the few common allergy tests among the many others. If you feel you are allergic to any substance or food, it is best to consult a doctor and get the prescribed allergy tests done for proper diagnosis of the same.