What to Expect For Testing

WHAT TO EXPECT AT ALLERGY TESTING

Environmental/Food/Drug Allergy Testing


Allergy skin testing is the most common type of allergy test and is relatively painless. Most patients report only minor irritation with the testing. A very small amount of different allergens is put on your skin by making a small indentation or “prick” on the surface of your skin with a plastic applicator.


  • Allow approximately 2 hours for your appointment
  • Do not take any of these antihistamines 5 days prior to your appointment, as they can affect the test results.
  • Testing will go on your back and is applied with a plastic apparatus which leaves oils on your skin.
  • The oils will remain on your back for approximately 15 minutes.
  • Additional testing may be required for accurate interpretation of results.
  • Additional testing is applied intradermally, which takes approximately an additional 15 minutes.

Food/Drug Challenges


When conducting a food challenge, a very small amount of food allergen or drug allergen is taken by mouth in increasing doses over the visit under the supervision of a provider. Sometimes drugs can be done as multiple shots.

  • Testing is done in early in the mornings or in the early afternoons.
  • Allow approximately 2 hours for your appointment.
  • Do not take any of these antihistamines 5 days prior to your appointment.
  • Small amounts of allergens are given approximately every 20-45 minutes, but each circumstance is unique.
  • If allergen is consumed without any problem, the provider will give specific instructions to be finished at home.

Patch Test


Patch testing is a form of skin testing used to determine the cause of different types of rashes. Small chambers containing different chemicals are taped to a patient’s back for several days and the patient comes back to the office to be read. Small areas of localized inflammation or itching may appear within 1 to 7 days which can confirm allergy to a variety of substances including metals, rubber compounds, fragrances, preservatives and sometimes medications. This form of testing is looking for delayed skin reactions and helps the provider determine if a person’s rash is due to contact with something in their environment.


  • Oral and topical steroids should be avoided during testing times. Oral steroids should not be taken two weeks prior to placement of the patch test.
  • Antihistamines are okay to take during patch testing.
  • Patch tests are applied on the back along with tape to secure the tests.
  • After placement, the test should be kept dry. Sponge baths can be taken and strenuous activity like exercise should be avoided due to sweating.
  • The patches are kept on for 48 hours (if applied Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday). If patches are applied on Friday, patients will return 72 hours later (on a Monday). No patch testing is done on Thursday.
  • Loose clothing should be worn during this time.
  • Patch tests can sometimes have a very delayed reaction. If this occurs, patient should return to the clinic to be examined.





Allergy Testing Results & Treatment Options


Part of treating an allergy is avoiding any exposure to the allergen that causes the symptoms. If it is not possible to avoid, allergy treatment options include:


  • Medication: Various medications can reduce the allergic reaction and ease your symptoms. These can be prescription or non-prescription, depending on what is the best fit for you.
  • Desensitization Oral Immunotherapy (OIT): OIT is a process by which the patient is given small amounts of food each day over a long period of time to achieve tolerance to that food. This can prevent the patient from having an allergic reaction if they are accidentally exposed to the allergen.
  • Allergy Drops: With this treatment, patients put liquid allergens under their tongue to build tolerance. Seasonal allergies and indoor allergens can be treated with allergy drops. Patients say this is a lower cost and more convenient treatment option.
  • Allergy Shots: This is an injection of allergens to build tolerance to allergens. These can treat seasonal allergies, indoor allergens, and insect stings.


Each patient is different and requires unique treatment options. Meet with one of our providers to find the right fit for you.

Do you think you need allergy testing? Book an appointment today.


Have more questions? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.

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