Don’t head to your appointment in the dark.
And luckily, allergy testing can help you do just that.
But what does allergy testing look like, exactly?
Photo: Getty Images
And how do you about getting tested?
Plus, she explains how to make sense of your results if youdohave an allergy.
Why Pursue Allergy Testing?
Science Photo Library/Getty
To understand why allergy testing is so important, you’ll first need some background onallergiesoverall.
National Library of Medicine.
That said, Dr. Parikh cautions against getting an allergy test willy-nilly.
“I would only get one if you have symptoms,” she says.
There’s no good evidence behind mass testing for no reason."
(Wait, is yourwintertime cold actually allergies?)
“That’s why the allergist is very important.”
(Refresher: Antibodies are proteins made by the immune system that “attack” the allergen.)
All skin contains mast cells, which are cells that cause an immediate allergic reaction.
“We usually will putanti-itch creamor spray on it to make them more comfortable,” she adds.
“We streamline what’s really necessary because you don’t want to torture the poor kid.”
“It is very, very rare, but it can occur.
But for over 90 percent of people, there are no issues.”
(Hold on, can you beallergic to hair dye?)
(These celebs wouldn’t have a problemgoing shower-free.)
What Happens After Allergy Testing?
But if you want to take steps to permanently alleviate symptoms, you’ve got options.
After that, you’ll get your shot once monthly for three to five years, she explains.
(In the meantime,these home remediesmay ease your sniffles.)
These devices deliver a dose of epinephrine, a medicine thatslows downthe allergic reaction andstopsthe airway from swelling.
In some cases, immunotherapy (treatment thatdesensitizesthe immune system to an allergen) may be an option.
Food and Drug Administration.
What About At-Home Allergy Tests?
(One at-home test youcando?This one for stress.)
“There’s a reason why that training occurs.”
