Does Your Child Need an Allergy Skin Test?

Allergies in infants and kids are common. Disorders related to allergies are also among the leading diagnoses of chronic diseases in children.

Although any child can develop allergies, they are more common in those who have a family history of it.

Allergy-Related Symptoms

If your child is showing any allergy-related symptoms, it’s important to see a specialist to have him/her checked.

The sooner you identify your child’s allergies, the sooner you can help your child get back to enjoying his/her childhood. Early detection also prevents more serious allergy-related complications.

Here are some of the symptoms to watch out for:

• Skin rashes
• Coughing
• Sneezing, runny nose, or nasal congestion
• Upset stomach
• Itchy eyes
• Trouble breathing

Skin Testing for Allergies

The most common way to test for allergies is through the skin. It’s usually done at the forearm or the back.

The skin prick test (also known as the scracth test) is the most typical test used for determining allergies. In this test, an allergist (a doctor who diagnoses and treats allergies and immune system conditions) or a nurse introduces an allergen on the skin. He/she will then make a scratch or prick on the skin.

In one visit, your child may be tested for several allergens. You’ll have to wait for 15 minutes to see any reaction. The doctor or nurse will look for a wheal – a raised, red bump that usually indicates an allergic reaction to a certain substance. The wheal normally goes away within 30 minutes to a few hours.

Other types of skin test for allergies include the intradermal test and the patch test.

In the intradermal test, the allergen is introduced under the skin. In the patch test, the allergens are taped on the skin for a period of time.

Skin allergy tests are generally well-tolerated. In cases of serious allergic reaction, the allergy doctor or nurse have the resources to handle such situation.

If your child is exhibiting any allergy-related symptom, see a specialist. The sooner you do that, the more you can help your child maintain his/her quality of life.

Allergy Skin Tests at Greater Knoxville ENT

GKENT physicians offer comprehensive evaluation and treatment of allergic disorders. Our physicians work closely with each individual patient to determine the root cause of allergy symptoms and provide a recommended personal plan, or comprehensive therapy, to restore patients back to health.

If you would like to schedule a skin test, please call our office at (865) 244-4396 or visit our Contact page.