Allergy Testing for Children and Adults: What to Expect

At Amerimmune Clinic, allergy testing is tailored to each patient’s age, comfort, and clinical needs. For pediatric patients, especially younger children, we recommend skin prick testing, a minimally invasive and quick method. We use smaller allergen extracts to minimize discomfort, and our staff employs distraction techniques to help children stay calm and cooperative.

For adults, skin prick or intradermal testing is commonly used, where a small allergen is injected beneath the skin surface. Adults typically have higher tolerance, allowing for comprehensive testing with a broader range of allergens.

If skin testing isn’t practical due to severe skin sensitivities, medication use, or difficulty with patient cooperation, allergen-specific IgE blood tests are used. These tests are a reliable alternative and particularly useful for infants and young children who may not tolerate skin tests.

At Amerimmune Clinic, our allergists customize each testing procedure to ensure it is safe, accurate, and comfortable, with a focus on patient-centered care. Our goal is to provide individualized allergy testing that meets the unique needs of every patient.

At Amerimmune Clinic, we aim to make allergy testing as comfortable and stress-free as possible for both parents and children. To prepare for your child’s allergy test, start by explaining the process in age-appropriate language, emphasizing that the test helps identify allergy triggers for effective treatment.

Follow the clinic’s guidelines regarding medications, as certain antihistamines and allergy medications may affect test accuracy. Dress your child in loose-fitting clothing to allow easy access to the testing area and avoid lotions, creams, or perfumes on their skin. Bring comforting items like a favorite toy or book to reduce anxiety and distract your child during the procedure.

Arrive early to complete paperwork and give your child time to relax before testing. Ensure your child has a normal meal beforehand, unless advised otherwise, as this can help them feel calmer and more cooperative.

If you have any concerns or questions about the test, don’t hesitate to reach out to Amerimmune Clinic. We are dedicated to providing compassionate care and ensuring that both you and your child are prepared, supported, and confident throughout the process.

At Amerimmune Clinic, we understand how concerning persistent allergy symptoms can be for parents of young children. Allergy testing is a safe and effective way to identify allergens triggering symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, eczema, or respiratory problems.

We offer two main allergy testing methods for young children: skin prick testing and blood testing. Skin prick testing involves applying small amounts of allergens to the skin and monitoring for reactions like redness or itching. This minimally invasive test is safe and causes only brief mild discomfort. Blood tests, such as specific IgE testing, involve a small blood sample to identify allergies. These are helpful for children who have difficulty with skin tests or existing skin conditions that may affect test accuracy.

Both testing methods provide valuable information, but results are interpreted alongside your child’s medical history and symptoms to ensure an accurate diagnosis. False positives or negatives can occur, so expert evaluation is crucial for proper management.

At Amerimmune Clinic, we view allergy testing as a critical step in guiding treatment strategies and improving your child’s quality of life. Our patient-centered approach ensures your child receives personalized care and support.

Once your allergy test results have been reviewed by your Amerimmune Clinic healthcare provider, you will typically schedule a follow-up consultation to discuss your results and their implications. At Amerimmune Clinic, our physicians specialize in identifying and managing allergies and immune-related conditions, ensuring you receive a comprehensive understanding of your specific allergic sensitivities and the severity of your reactions. This detailed information enables us to create a personalized and effective treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs.

Your customized treatment plan from Amerimmune Clinic may include practical strategies for allergen avoidance, such as modifying your diet or living environment, depending upon the allergens identified. Our providers may also recommend medications to help manage and control allergy symptoms, such as antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, or inhalers, based on your individual health requirements.

For suitable candidates, Amerimmune Clinic offers advanced allergen immunotherapy options, including allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy) or sublingual immunotherapy tablets. Immunotherapy involves carefully administered, incremental exposure to allergens, helping your immune system build tolerance and significantly reducing allergic reactions over time.

In addition to medical treatments, your healthcare provider will educate you on recognizing early signs of allergic reactions and clearly outline steps for emergency response, particularly important if you experience severe allergic sensitivities. If necessary, we can facilitate referrals to trusted specialists, such as allergists or immunologists, who collaborate with us to provide comprehensive allergy and immune health management.

At Amerimmune Clinic, thoroughly reviewing and understanding your allergy test results with your healthcare provider is a crucial step. This process empowers you with knowledge and tools to effectively manage your allergies, improve your overall quality of life, and minimize the risk of severe allergic reactions. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We serve patients from McLean VA, Alexandria VA, Arlington VA, Bethesda MD, Gaithersburg MD, and Rockville MD, Vienna VA, IdylWood VA, Lincolnia VA, Groveton VA, Falls Church VA, North Bethesda MD, Takoma Park MD, Montgomery Village MD, Redland MD, Aspen Hill MD, and surrounding areas.