Allergy Testing Specialist
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Comprehensive Allergy and Asthma Associates
Cathy Green, MD
Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Specialist located in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Whether you’re convinced you have allergies or you suffer from ongoing symptoms that leave you wondering if allergies are the culprit, there’s only one way to find the answer, and that’s with allergy testing. As one of the top specialists in the field, Cathy Green, MD, at Comprehensive Allergy and Asthma Associates offers allergy testing and treatment such as allergy shots, all delivered with personalized care at the convenience of her office. To schedule an appointment for allergy testing, call the office in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles, or use the online booking feature today.
Allergy Testing Q & A
When should I get allergy testing?
There’s only one way to determine if you have allergies, and that’s with allergy testing. You should consider scheduling allergy testing when you think you have allergies or when you have:
- Symptoms that don’t improve with over-the-counter medications
- Symptoms severe enough to affect daily activities
- Symptoms that last several months or longer
- Severe swelling following an insect sting
- Chronic sinus infections
If you suspect you have a food allergy, you should schedule allergy testing at Comprehensive Allergy and Asthma Associates.
The most common symptoms caused by airborne allergens like pollen include sneezing, a runny or congested nose, watery eyes, and an itchy nose, eyes, or throat. Other types of allergies may cause hives, skin rash, abdominal pain, or diarrhea.
What types of allergy skin testing might I receive?
Skin tests are most often used for allergy testing because you get quick results while you’re at the office for your appointment. Dr. Green performs several types of skin tests:
Skin prick test
During a skin prick test, Dr. Green places a small drop of your suspected allergen on your skin and then gently scratches the skin. Several allergens can be tested at once by placing each one in a different area on your arm. If you’re allergic to any of the substances, you develop a skin reaction in about 15 minutes.
Intradermal test
Dr. Green performs an intradermal test by injecting a small dose of allergen under your skin. You have a quick skin reaction if you’re allergic to the allergen. Dr. Green often does an intradermal test to confirm the results when a skin prick test is negative.
Patch test
A patch test is a type of skin test used to identify contact allergens such as poison ivy, latex, and detergents. After placing a small amount of several possible allergens on a patch, Dr. Green puts the patch on your back.
After wearing the patch for 48 hours, you go back to the office so Dr. Green can look for skin reactions. Dr. Green may ask you to wear the patch several additional days to be sure there’s enough time for an allergic reaction to develop.
Will I need blood drawn for allergy testing?
Blood tests can identify all of the same allergens as skin tests, but it takes longer to get the results from a blood test. Dr. Green may recommend the ImmunoCAP® IgE blood test if you can’t have a skin test, your skin test was inconclusive, or she suspects a food allergy.
If you need allergy testing, call Comprehensive Allergy and Asthma Associates or schedule an appointment online.
