Allergy Testing
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Dallas Family Medicine
Family Medicine & Sleep Medicine located in Dallas, TX
More than 50 million Americans have allergies. Allergens from pollen to peanuts can trigger allergic reactions that range from annoying to downright deadly, but they affect different people in different ways. If you’re bothered by allergy symptoms, allergy testing accurately identifies what’s causing your reaction. The doctors at Dallas Family Medicine offer comprehensive allergy testing and customized treatment to relieve your symptoms. Call the office in Dallas, Texas, or request an appointment online to get started.
Allergy Testing Q & A
What are allergies?
Your immune system is your body’s natural defense against bacteria and germs. But if you’re one of the millions of Americans with allergies, your immune system mistakenly identifies the allergen as a threat and attacks it.
Some common allergens are mold spores, pollen, pet dander, and foods like nuts or dairy. Allergic reactions can vary depending on the allergen and your immune system, but common signs include:
- Skin rash
- Hives
- Congestion
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Abdominal pain
If you or your child experiences any of these symptoms, allergy testing could help you learn what’s causing them.
How does allergy testing work?
The team at Dallas Family Medicine performs allergy testing to identify allergens safely and effectively. Your doctor exposes you to specific allergens in a controlled environment and evaluates your reaction to determine which allergens cause your symptoms.
Skin tests are the most common type of allergy testing. Also called patch tests, these allergy tests can identify airborne, food, and contact allergens. Your doctor may apply a liquid or adhesive patch containing potential allergens directly to your skin. They watch for redness, swelling, and irritation around the patch, which indicates an allergic reaction.
A blood allergy test could be a good option if you’re at risk for a severe allergic reaction to a skin test. If food allergies are suspected, an elimination diet could isolate which foods trigger allergic reactions.
How can I relieve my allergy symptoms?
Allergens affect everyone differently, so there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment. Once your allergy test is complete, your Dallas Family Medicine doctor works with you to develop a customized treatment plan.
Lifestyle changes to avoid and reduce your exposure to allergens can be effective, but it’s often impossible to completely remove allergens from your everyday life. Over-the-counter allergy medication may relieve mild allergy symptoms, but these medications often come with significant side effects.
At Dallas Family Medicine, the team offers custom-formulated allergy medications for every patient. They evaluate your needs and customize each dosage so you can enjoy effective allergy relief.
You don’t have to live with bothersome allergy symptoms. Get an expert diagnosis and customized allergy medication at Dallas Family Medicine. Contact the office online or on the phone for an appointment.