When is it needed and when is it not?
Allergy tests may help identify allergies to things you eat, touch or breathe in. They are usually skin or blood tests. However, allergy tests alone are generally not enough. It is important to have a doctor’s exam and medical history first to help diagnose allergies. If the exam and medical history point to allergies, allergy tests may help find what you are allergic to. You can then take appropriate steps to avoid the allergy triggers. However, if you don’t have symptoms and you haven’t had a medical exam that points to an allergy, you should think twice about allergy testing. Here’s why:
1. Allergy tests, without a doctor’s exam, are usually not reliable.
Many laboratories offer allergy screenings. But the results of these tests may be misleading. The tests may say you have an allergy when you do not. This is called a “false positive.”
2. Unreliable test results can lead to unnecessary changes in your lifestyle.
If the test says you are allergic to some foods, such as wheat, soy, eggs, or milk, you may stop eating those foods. You may end up with a poor diet, and unnecessary worries, frustration, or food costs. If the test claims you are allergic to horses for example, you may give up a beloved habit of riding them. And tests for chronic hives—red, itchy, raised areas of the skin that last for more than six weeks—can show something that may not look normal but is not a problem. However, this can lead to anxiety and a cycle of more tests.
Are allergy tests safe?
Testing done by a qualified allergist is generally safe and effective for adults and children of all ages. The professionals who perform allergy tests including skin prick testing have emergency medicines and equipment standing by for the very rare occurrence of a serious reaction. They are trained in the reversal of these symptoms. It is important that allergy testing is directed by a healthcare professional with sufficient allergy/immunology training and prompted by your medical history.
The Allergy/Immunology services at HMC are provided by two teams. The first one specializes in children and the second is for adults. A great cooperation and integration exists between the two teams, as well as with the ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctors who specialize in these sorts of allergies. When a patient is referred for to the Allergy and Immunology Clinic, we take their medical history and perform a physical examination to provide an initial evaluation. We will then follow up with some more tests as required and provide the appropriate treatment.
