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What Does an Allergy Skin Test Test for?

With skin tests, doctors can determine to what and to what degree you are allergic to various triggers. The tests are simple, relatively painless and produce fast results.

  1. Types of Tests

    • Two types of skin tests are used for diagnosing allergies, according to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology.

      With the prick technique, the skin is punctured with a drop of allergen extract. If you are allergic, you may respond by sneezing, itching, wheezing or feeling nasal congestion.

      Intradermal involves injecting a small amount of allergen under the skin with a syringe. It will detect allergy triggers that the prick test misses.

    Which Allergens Are You Tested For?

    • If you suffer itching, swelling, sneezing, wheezing, and other symptoms in the presence, say, of a cat, or only on certain spring days, you probably are suffering an allergic reaction. The skin tests pinpoint the causes. Common triggers for which you may be tested include:
      • products from dust mites that live in your home
      • proteins from furry pets, which are found in their skin secretions (dander), saliva and urine
      • molds in your home or in the air outside
      • tree, grass and weed pollen
      • cockroach droppings

    Other Allergens

    • More serious allergic reactions can be caused by:
      • venom from the stings of bees, wasps, yellow jackets, fire ants and other insects
      • foods
      • natural rubber latex, such as gloves or balloons
      • drugs, such as penicillin or sulfa

    Testing Positive for Allergies

    • Testing positive for allergies means you're sensitive to one or more of the allergens mentioned above. But it doesn't necessarily mean you have to avoid these things completely; it depends on the seriousness of your reaction. If, for example, eating shellfish puts you into anaphylactic shock, then run, don't walk away from shellfish. If, however, shellfish makes your nose run for a few minutes, then it's probably safe to eat. But before you partake, talk to your health care provider.

    Treatment

    • Treatment for allergies can range from weekly allergy shots to antihistamines. Consult with your doctor about what is best for you.

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