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Allergy Testing

Allergy testing identifies the specific substances (pollen, dust mites, pet dander, foods, insect venom, or certain medicines) that set off your immune system. Paired with an exam and your history, results show what you are allergic to and, just as useful, what you are not.

Common test types

In a skin prick test, small amounts of possible allergens are placed on the forearm or back and the skin is lightly pricked; reactions usually show within 15 to 20 minutes. Blood (IgE) tests are used when skin testing might be unsafe or won't work, such as with certain medications or skin conditions, and results take longer. Patch testing, for rashes caused by contact with a substance, keeps the patches on for 48 hours before the skin is checked.

Before your visit

Antihistamines, prescription or over-the-counter, can change skin-test results, so ask the clinic which medicines to stop and when. Don't stop a medicine on your own if your symptoms are severe; tell the clinician instead. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology advises against supermarket or drugstore allergy screenings, home test kits, and IgG food-allergy testing, and recommends that testing be directed by a clinician with allergy training.

When it's an emergency

Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that can start quickly and be life-threatening. Signs include swelling of the lips or tongue, throat tightness or trouble swallowing, wheezing or shortness of breath, and a weak pulse or fainting. Call 911, and use an epinephrine auto-injector right away if one is available.

Go to the ER instead if you have:

What it costs

Cost depends on how many allergens are tested and which method is used. Ask the clinic for self-pay pricing, and check whether your plan covers testing. See the full Illinois cost guide.

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General health-services information, not medical advice. In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.