The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) estimates that 50 million Americans suffer from allergies. Typically, children or young adults first experience these allergies. Your child’s ability to play, sleep, and perform academically can all be affected by allergies. However, tests will enable you and your Surprise allergist to identify the substances responsible for your kid’s allergy symptoms. Also, you can know what your child should avoid by understanding the substances that trigger the symptoms. Additionally, it provides information about potential therapies that might lessen symptoms for the healthcare professional. Some possible allergy diagnostic tests are:
- Blood tests
These blood tests detect IgE antibodies to specific allergens. RAST (radioallergosorbent test) is the most often used blood test. A newer blood test known as an ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) may also be performed. When skin testings are not possible, blood tests may be employed. A positive blood test, like a positive skin test, does not always indicate that your kid is allergic to that allergen. Blood tests take longer to complete and may cost more than skin testing.
- Skin tests
These tests assess your child’s IgE antibody response to specific allergies or triggers. They employ modest quantities of allergen-containing liquids. Your youngster may be given a shot (injection) of the solution beneath the skin by the healthcare practitioner. This is known as an intradermal test. Alternatively, the allergens may be applied with a little scratch by the provider. After around 15 minutes, a response would develop as a little red patch. A skin test result does not necessarily indicate that your kid is allergic to the allergen that triggered the reaction. However, your child’s provider will determine this.
Moreover, children who have experienced a severe life-threatening reaction to an allergen may be subjected to skin testing. Consult with an allergist if you are worried about your child’s prior responses or skin tests. Children with severe skin rashes (such as eczema) may be unable to be skin tested until their rashes have subsided.
- Challenge test
An allergist always oversees this test. They offer your child a trace quantity of an allergy to inhale or consume. Your youngster is then thoroughly monitored for any allergic reactions. You are recommended not to attempt this at home.
Understanding allergies
Allergic responses happen when your immune system responds to anything foreign in the body. As a result, your body produces immunoglobulin E antibodies. Once in your bloodstream, these antibodies adhere to your skin, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. When exposed to that allergen again, the antibodies produce histamine, which causes blood vessels to widen. This results in an allergic response. Hives, swelling, rashes, cold-like symptoms, breathing difficulties, and digestive issues are some signs of an allergic reaction. If you have any of these indicators and feel an allergy, avoid the suspected allergen and consult your doctor.
Your physician can help you determine whether your child’s symptoms are allergy-related and develop a management strategy. They may require antihistamines or other medications to alleviate the symptoms of cutaneous, respiratory, or intestinal allergies. You may teach your child tactics for avoiding or reducing allergy responses, such as avoiding particular foods, playing outside when pollen levels are low, and washing hands immediately after handling a pet. Call Oasis Ear, Nose, and Throat or book your appointment online to determine which allergy procedure is best for your child.
