Allergy Testing Specialist in Bethesda, MD

Allergy testing is a precise medical process that helps determine if your immune system reacts abnormally to certain substances, known as allergens. At Amerimmune Clinic, our experienced healthcare professionals use advanced testing methods including skin prick tests, patch tests, and specialized blood tests that measure immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to pinpoint what’s causing your symptoms.

Our testing is designed to identify a wide range of allergens, from foods and environmental substances like pollen or pet dander, to insect stings and medications. These tests are essential for patients experiencing unexplained allergic reactions or seeking confirmation of suspected allergies.

After your allergy evaluation, our team reviews your results in conjunction with your medical history and current symptoms. This comprehensive approach allows us to develop a personalized treatment plan for you.

At Amerimmune Clinic, we are dedicated to providing you with the most accurate and comprehensive allergy testing experience. To help us achieve the best results, we ask that you follow a few important steps as you prepare for your appointment.

Before Your Appointment:

Please carefully review any instructions sent to you by our team. Many allergy tests, such as skin prick or patch tests, require that you temporarily stop certain medications, some cold remedies, and specific antidepressants, as these can interfere with your results. Our providers will give you clear guidance on which medications to avoid and how long before your test you should discontinue them, typically several days in advance.

Day of Your Appointment:

Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled up, as most allergy tests are performed on the forearm or back. Please avoid applying lotions, creams, or perfumes to the test areas on the day of your visit, as these products can affect the accuracy of your results. If you are experiencing a cold, respiratory infection, or any other illness, let our staff know as this might impact your test timing or results.

What to Bring:

To help our Amerimmune Clinic specialists give you the best possible care, please bring the following to your appointment:

• A list of your current medications
• Information about any known allergies
• A summary of your recent allergy symptoms, including when they occur and any suspected triggers
• Results from any previous allergy tests, if available

Allergy testing and post-test observation may take longer than a standard visit, so please allow extra time in your schedule. Following these steps helps ensure that your allergy testing at Amerimmune Clinic is as effective, comfortable, and informative as possible.

Allergy testing is generally not painful, but it can be somewhat uncomfortable depending on the type of test being performed. Rest assured, our team is dedicated to providing a safe and comfortable experience for all our patients.

The most common allergy tests performed at Amerimmune Clinic are skin prick tests and blood tests:

• Skin Prick Test: Our skilled healthcare providers will place a tiny drop of allergen extract on your forearm or back and gently prick the skin’s surface. This process is quick and usually feels like a slight scratch or pinch—most patients report only mild, temporary discomfort. If you are allergic to a particular substance, you may notice a small, itchy bump (similar to a mosquito bite) that fades soon after the test.

• Blood Test: For some patients, we may recommend a blood test, which involves drawing a small sample of blood. You might feel a brief pinch or sting at the needle site, but this is typically well tolerated. Any minor soreness or bruising usually resolves on its own.

Allergy testing is generally a low-risk and minimally uncomfortable procedure. If you have concerns about pain or discomfort, please let our team know. We are here to answer your questions and ensure you feel informed and at ease throughout your visit.

The duration of your visit will depend on the specific type of allergy test recommended by our medical team.

One of the most common methods we use at Amerimmune Clinic is the skin prick test. This procedure typically takes about 20 to 40 minutes. During your appointment, we will carefully apply potential allergens to your skin, monitor for any reactions, and then discuss the results with you.

For some patients, a blood test (such as specific IgE testing) may be more appropriate. The blood draw itself is quick, usually only a few minutes, though it may take several days for our laboratory to process and return the results.

If you are being evaluated for contact allergies, you may undergo patch testing. In this case, patches are placed on your skin and left in place for 48 hours. You will then return to Amerimmune Clinic for your results and a detailed discussion with your physician.

Most in-office allergy testing appointments at Amerimmune Clinic last between one to two hours. This allows us time for preparation, testing, observation for any delayed reactions, and a thorough review of your results with one of our experienced providers.

Our team will always explain the specific timeline and steps for your personalized allergy evaluation. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are located at 4827 Rugby Avenue Suite A 201 Bethesda, MD 20814. We serve patients from Bethesda MD, North Bethesda MD, Takoma Park MD, Silver Springs MD, Chillum MD, and surrounding areas.