How often should one undergo an allergy test?
April 26, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Petra Netz
Dear allergist,
my name is Nina Koch and I have been suffering from allergic reactions for some time now, mainly manifesting as skin rashes and itching. I have already undergone some tests with my general practitioner and found out that I am allergic to certain pollens and animal hairs. As the symptoms have been worsening lately, I am wondering how often I should undergo allergy testing to keep my symptoms under control.
I am concerned that my allergies could worsen further if I do not regularly check which substances I am allergic to. Additionally, I would like to know if it is advisable to repeat the tests at certain intervals to detect any changes in my allergies early on.
Could you please tell me how often it is recommended to undergo allergy testing and if there are any specific risk factors that may necessitate more frequent monitoring? Are there also alternative methods for allergy testing that may be more effective or gentler?
Thank you in advance for your help and advice.
Sincerely,
Nina Koch
Dear Mrs. Koch,
thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as an allergist. I'm sorry to hear that you are suffering from allergic reactions, especially skin rashes and itching. It is understandable that you are concerned about how often you should undergo allergy testing to keep your symptoms under control.
In general, I recommend regular allergy testing, especially if you already know what substances you are allergic to. The frequency of testing may vary depending on the individual course of the disease and the severity of the allergy. It is usually recommended to undergo testing at least once a year to detect any changes early and adjust the treatment if necessary.
There are certain risk factors that may require more frequent monitoring. These include, for example, a family history of severe allergies, known allergic asthma, or increased exposure to allergens in your environment. In such cases, it may be advisable to undergo testing more than once a year to prevent complications.
There are various methods for testing allergies, including skin tests, blood tests, and provocation tests. The choice of method depends on various factors, such as the type of allergy, your health condition, and personal preferences. Skin tests are considered a quick and reliable method for identifying allergens, while blood tests are a good alternative, especially when skin tests cannot be performed. Provocation tests are usually only used in special cases when other tests do not provide clear results.
It is important to discuss the appropriate testing method and optimal testing schedule with your treating physician. Together, you can create a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs to help you manage your symptoms.
I hope this information was helpful for you. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.
Kind regards,
Petra Netz
Allergist
