Allergy Testing in Humble, Texas

At Texas ENT Specialists in Humble, we seek to provide tailored solutions that meet the specific immunotherapy needs of every patient we serve. That is why we also believe that allergy testing is an essential component of this process. Our experienced team will walk you through every step and ensure you feel informed, comfortable, and safe. We can test for a variety of allergies, including those caused by drugs, food, environmental factors, and more.

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Younger woman in a yellow sweater, having allergy problems

Performing Allergy Tests in Humble

Allergy tests are incredibly helpful and relatively straightforward to administer. First, we will begin with a control test to ensure your skin will respond to the testing. In some cases, if there are any medications still in your system, you will have to reschedule your test. Otherwise, we can move forward. Allergy tests in Humble TX are performed by injecting a patient with a small amount of the allergens in question. The skin is then monitored for reactions.

Be Prepared for Your Allergy Tests

We know that patients may be on any number of medications prior to their allergy tests. If you are taking beta-blockers, you must ask your prescribing doctor if you can safely and temporarily stop these medications a week before your testing appointment. You may be able to switch over to a different class of medications during this time and resume your usual regimen once allergy testing is completed.

Conditions We Can Detect with Allergy Testing

Pollen-related allergies
Dust-related allergies
Allergies caused by other environmental elements

Why Allergy Testing is Beneficial

You will achieve assurance on your allergens
The process can be completed quickly
Awareness of your allergens can improve your life

The Allergy Testing Timeline at Texas ENT Specialists in Humble

1 Week Before Testing

Many medications, including eye drops, herbal supplements, nasal sprays, and over-the-counter medications will have to be stopped before taking your allergy test. We will email you a list of medications to avoid and ask that you inform us of any respiratory illnesses you suffer from.

1 Day Before Testing

If you have a substantial amount of hair on your arms, it is necessary to shave these areas since we need a clear view of your skin’s reaction to the injections we administer. To avoid skin irritation, however, it is recommended that you shave 12 hours before testing rather than on the morning of your appointment. Those who have little to no body hair do not have to shave their arms for this test.

The Day of The Test

Take a shower on the morning of your appointment
Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages, such as coffee or soda
If you are a smoker or use tobacco products, refrain from using them for four hours before testing
Do not use any perfume, cologne, or other scented products

Your allergy test will take a total of 1 to 2 hours to complete. After your arms are injected with the allergens, you will wait for the reactions. Bring something to occupy your mind, such as a book, an electronic tablet, or a magazine.

To easily access the areas on your arms where we will be administering the allergy tests, it is important that you remember to wear short-sleeved or loose-sleeved clothing. Some patients cannot have these tests performed on their arms and, under these circumstances, you should wear a loose pair of shorts.

If you are bringing in a young child for allergy testing and their arms are small, have them wear a pair of loose-fitting shorts.

To ensure your safety, our providers will have you perform a pulmonary lung function test to check for any lung conditions that may put you at risk as we test for allergies. Asthma patients or those who suffer from any other lung conditions should disclose this information.