Allergy Testing

Allergy testing confirms your immune system’s reaction to a specific allergen so you can then take steps to avoid the allergen and the symptoms it causes. At AssociatesMD in Plantation, Pembroke Pines, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Weston, Margate, and Dania Beach, Florida, the multidisciplinary team conducts allergy testing using blood tests, skin tests, and elimination diets. Call the office or book an appointment online to start allergy testing today. Walk-in urgent care visits are available for nonlife-threatening allergic reactions. 

How does allergy testing work?

Allergy testing is a service that permits you to find out what causes allergic symptoms like itchy eyes, a runny nose, hives, or anaphylaxis. 

It’s important to discover the allergen causing your allergies so you can take action to avoid it and minimize symptoms, especially life-threatening symptoms like anaphylaxis. 

AssociatesMD uses multiple types of allergy testing and other services to identify allergy-specific antibodies or allergic reactions. The team might suggest using:

• Allergy skin tests
• Allergy blood tests
• Food allergy testing
• Allergy symptom diary
• Elimination diets

The team tells you which tests to get based on the type of allergic symptoms you experience. 

When should I consider allergy testing?

You should consider allergy testing if you get symptoms that are consistent with allergies. While mild symptoms might not bother you much, more severe symptoms like chronic respiratory infections and nasal congestion can impact your sleep and overall quality of life. 

Consider allergy testing if you experience allergic symptoms such as:

• Hives 
• Swelling
• Sneezing
• Wheezing 
• Watery eyes
• Itching

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that not everyone gets. It involves a swollen throat, swollen tongue, trouble breathing, and an impending sense of doom. It can be life-threatening if you don’t get medical attention right away. 

What do the results of allergy testing mean?

The team at AssociatesMD can interpret your test results to you as soon as they’re available. A negative result means no allergy is present, while a positive result indicates you’ve had a reaction to one of the allergens tested. 

Some of the most common allergens are:

• Pollen 
• Pet dander
• Dust mites
• Peanuts
• Eggs
• Tree nuts
• Shellfish

The team can help you manage allergy symptoms by teaching you to minimize contact with your allergen in your everyday life. They might also recommend antihistamines or other medications to alleviate symptoms, or immunotherapy to treat your allergy. 

If you get anaphylaxis, the AssociatesMD team might prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector, or EpiPen. You carry it with you to counteract a life-threatening allergic reaction. 

Call AssociatesMD or schedule an appointment online for more information about allergy testing and elimination diets today.