Allergy testing available only at Hallandale location.
More than 50 million people in the United States have allergies, but this number may be higher since many allergies are unidentified. If you’re struggling with unexplained issues, such as hives or cold-like symptoms, it’s time for allergy testing at HG Doctors. Through targeted allergy testing, the experienced team can quickly identify the cause of your problem, allowing you to find relief more quickly. To learn more about allergy testing, call the HG Doctors today or use the online scheduling tool.
Allergy Testing Q & A
What is an allergy?
Under normal circumstances, your immune system does a great job protecting you against foreign invaders, such as bacteria or viruses. When your immune system detects something that it deems harmful, it sets into motion a response that’s designed to fight it off.
With an allergy, however, your immune system mistakenly identifies a substance as harmful — which is called an allergen — and sets off an immune response. The most common types of allergies include:
- Food allergies
- Allergic sinusitis (hay fever)
- Mold and dust mite allergies
- Pet dander
- Insect stings
- Latex
While these represent the most common allergens, anytime your body responds to something it shouldn’t, it’s considered an allergy.
What are the most common signs of an allergy?
The most common signs of an allergy include:
- Runny nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Hives
- Skin rash
- Swelling in your mouth and airways
- Respiratory issues
In extreme cases, an allergic response may be anaphylactic, which is serious and causes your body to go into shock.
How are allergies tested?
The best way to get to the bottom of your issues is to have one of the health care providers at HG Doctors perform a simple allergy test. To do this, your allergy specialist turns to airborne and food sensitivity testing. Using a small applicator, your provider introduces allergens into your skin to test for a local reaction. The test is virtually painless as your provider, quite literally, only scratches the surface of your skin.
If you show a response to any of the introduced allergens, it gives your allergy specialist a clear idea of what’s setting off your immune system.
How are allergies treated?
The team at HG Doctors has had great success treating patients with immunotherapy, a treatment in which they desensitize your body to the allergen. The treatment may take 1-5 years as your doctor slowly introduces small amounts of the allergen so that your immune system gradually responds with antibodies that block an allergic reaction.
Immunotherapy, alongside a trigger management plan, helps you stay one step ahead of your allergies.
For comprehensive and accurate allergy testing, call HG Doctors or request an appointment using the online request tool.
