What Is Allergy Testing?

Allergy testing is used to identify which substances you are allergic to, as well as the severity of each allergy. The results of your test are used to guide your treatment in the future. There are many different types of allergy tests available, two of which are offered by Dr. Wandzel. These two types of tests are explained in detail in the "Types of Testing" section.

What Does Dr. Wandzel Test For?

There are a variety of allergens from the following categories used for both adults and children:

Trees
Grasses
Weeds
Molds
Animals
Foods
Dust

  • sneezing
  • runny, itchy, or stuffy nose
  • nasal congestion
  • itchy watery eyes
  • dark puffy circles under the eyes
  • itchy tongue or roof of the mouth
  • stinging or burning sensation in the mouth
  • swelling of the tongue or throat
  • drainage in the back of the throat
  • coughing or increased asthma symptoms
  • itchy skin, certain rashes such as hives
  • sinus infections
Allergen: The substance you are allergic to, for example cat dander, dust, or peanuts.
Antihistamine: A medication given to decrease allergy symptoms such as Allegra, Benadryl, Claritin, or Zyrtec.
Decongestant: A medication used to decrease nasal stuffiness and sinus pressure.
Immunotherapy: allergy shots.
Rhinitis: Nasal congestion, itchiness, or swelling in response to an irritant such as an allergen.
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If you would like to schedule testing, or if you have questions, please contact our office.
Highland: (248) 889-7600
Howell: (517)548-5900

What Types of Testing Will Be Used?

The first type of testing is called "Scratch Testing." Adults receive 60 different varieties of allergens that are placed on the upper back using a very small prick. After 12-15 minutes your results will become visible to the nurse. Based on these results, the second type of testing is administered.

This second phase is called "Intradermal Testing." Different types of allergens will be injected just under the skin of your upper arm. Not all people will need this type of testing. Intradermal testing can produce a more sensitive response because it is injected slightly deeper under the skin than scratch testing (similar to a TB skin test.)

In specific situations a third type of testing called "RAST Testing" will be offered.
Children will be given only 35 scratch tests and usually no intradermals
Reasons NOT To Be Tested

Please note that allergy tests are only administered to children over the age of five in our office. If you would like to have a child under the age of five tested, please speak to Dr. Wandzel.

You cannot be tested if you are pregnant, taking certain medications, or if you have certain skin disorders or numerous skin grafts.

 
When Will I Know My Results?

The nurse administering your tests will provide you with the results as soon as they are read, about 15 minutes after the tests are placed on your back or arm. The entire visit lasts about an hour and a half, and Dr. Wandzel will see you at the end of your visit to review your results and discuss your treatment options with you.
 
Highland Office: (248) 889-7600      Howell Office: (517) 548-5900