Allergy tests
There are several different ways you can test to see what allergies you have, and how severe your allergies are. Each allergy test has certain advantages. It is important to know the different types of allergy tests which are available, and their specific details, so you can take the tests which are right for you, depending on your conditions. However, taking these tests alone is not enough. You and your health care provider need to know and analyze your medical history in order to put your allergy tests’ results in the appropriate context for you specifically.
Can Tests Diagnose My Allergies?
Fortunately, allergy tests can tell you a lot about your allergies – not just what you are allergic to, but whether your allergy is mild, moderate, or severe.
Allergy Skin Tests
There are 3 different types of allergy skin tests which can be effective in diagnosing your allergies. In some skin tests, results may come as quickly as 15 minutes, whereas other allergy skin tests may take as long as 48 hours to show results.
Allergy Blood Testing – RAST
You can use the RAST blood test to measure levels of certain allergy related substances in your blood. If you have a widespread skin disease which precludes other allergy skin testing, or if you are highly sensitive to the allergen, the RAST allergy blood test may be a good option for you.
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