A consultation with the doctor to evaluate your medical history will be followed by a physical examination. Based on your medical history and current symptoms, the allergist will decide what type of allergy tests you require. On your initial appointment, the nurse or medical assistant will provide all necessary tests, and the doctor will read the results. At the conclusion of your appointment, you will receive a detailed summary of all the tests performed as well as a list of the outcomes. We advise that you anticipate your first appointment being between one and two hours.
Anywhere from 8 to 80 different allergens are tested. It will take the nurse or medical assistant about 2-3 minutes to place the allergens on your skin. Generally, the prick or scratch test will be placed on your back. You will feel a slight prick as these are placed on your skin with a plastic applicator. If you are allergic to any antigens placed on your skin, a small red bump will appear, and the area may itch. The doctor will read the results of these tests in 15-20 minutes and determine if any additional testing is done. Stronger testing is done by an intradermal test that places a small amount of the antigen under your skin with a very thin needle. These tests will also be read in 15-20 minutes by the doctor.
Skin testing is covered through most insurance plans. To get individualized coverage information, you should check with your insurance company. Your insurance policy may require deductibles to be paid or that you have a referral from your Primary Care Physician before your policy would cover your appointment.
Allergy skin testing can help identify the substances that may be triggering symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, skin reactions, and asthma flare-ups. These FAQs explain how allergy testing works, what to expect during your visit, and how the results can help guide a personalized treatment plan.
Skin allergy testing includes a review of your symptoms, medical history, and a physical exam. Testing may involve skin prick or intradermal testing using small amounts of allergens placed on the skin to check for a reaction, often within 15 to 20 minutes.
Allergy skin testing causes only mild, temporary discomfort. Most patients describe it as a light prickling or tickling sensation, and the test usually does not cause bleeding.
Results from skin prick and intradermal testing are usually available within 15 to 20 minutes, often during the same visit.
Allergy skin testing may be helpful if you have sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, hives, skin rashes, or asthma flare-ups and the cause is unclear.
Testing may identify reactions to pollen, mold, pet dander, dust mites, certain foods, insect venom, and some medications.
You may need to stop taking antihistamines or other medications before testing. Your care team will provide specific instructions ahead of your appointment.
The test itself takes 15-20 minutes. Most visits last 30 to 60 minutes, though some appointments may take longer depending on the number and types of tests needed.
Yes. Allergy skin testing is safe when performed by trained medical professionals. Reactions are usually mild and limited to the skin.
Yes. Skin testing is commonly used to evaluate allergies in children and can be an effective part of pediatric allergy care.
After testing, your physician will review the results and recommend next steps, which may include medications, trigger avoidance, or immunotherapy.
Ohio ENT & Allergy Physicians provides comprehensive allergy evaluation and personalized treatment plans across multiple Central Ohio locations, helping patients get clear answers and long-term symptom relief. Call or schedule online.