What To Expect During a Respiratory Allergen Skin Test

A respiratory allergen skin test refers to a type of diagnostic procedure commonly used to identify allergens that can potentially trigger respiratory allergies – like asthma or hay fever, for example. If you live, work, or play in the greater Bloomington, IL area and are looking for relief for allergies in children and young adults, contact Dr. Sanjay Saxena, Dr. Jean Kolb, Dr. Anita Lee, or a member of the Central Illinois Pediatric Associates staff today.

What To Expect During a Respiratory Allergen Skin Test?

A respiratory allergen skin test, which may also be called a puncture or skin prick test, diagnostically helps a doctor or healthcare professional identify those allergens that cause you to react symptomatically. When the allergens are known, a pediatric specialist can help develop the appropriate plan of treatment for your child or teenager.

The Test Area

The most common respiratory allergen skin testing sites are usually chosen somewhere along the forearm or the upper back, as those locations on the body tend to be free of irritations/rashes. The actual test begins once the doctor marks the skin where the allergens will be tested.

The Application of Allergen Extracts

Small droplets of specific liquid extracts are applied to denoted spots.

Skin Pricking

Then, a doctor will gently prick through the allergen droplet and skin using a sterile instrument. This is typically not painful, but some people describe it as a tiny pinprick that causes mild but quick discomfort.  

The Observation of Reactions

Next, the application site is closely monitored – which typically appears within 20 minutes for indications of allergic reactions.

Allergic Reaction Types

A positive reaction will typically appear as red and raised areas – similar to a mosquito bite reaction. To determine the allergic significance or intensity, the size of the reaction is compared to a control site where no allergens were applied. Note that a positive response indicates a sensitivity to an allergen but doesn’t automatically mean one is symptomatic when exposed.

Post-Test Care

After the test, a patient may experience minor discomfort and itching that is typically temporary. After the test results are analyzed, a treatment plan can be developed for your child or adolescent son or daughter.

Contact a Leading Bloomington, IL Pediatrician Today for Allergy Testing Information

If you suspect your child or young adult may have respiratory allergies, contact Dr. Saxena, Dr. Kolb, Dr. Lee, or a staff member at Central Illinois Pediatric Associates at (309) 663-1011 or online. We look forward to guiding you and your son/daughter through the diagnosis and treatment process.