About Allergy Skin Testing
Your provider has ordered allergy skin testing to help identify the specific allergens causing your symptoms. Skin testing is the most accurate and widely used method of allergy testing available. It is not painful — most patients describe it as a minor tickle or itch — and results are available within 15–20 minutes.
The allergens routinely tested include tree, grass, and weed pollens; pet dander; mold spores; dust mites; and common foods.
Medications to STOP — 5 Days Before Your Test
Antihistamines block the skin reaction and must be stopped 5 full days before testing. Do not take any of the following:
- Clarinex (desloratadine)
- Claritin (loratadine)
- Allegra (fexofenadine)
- Zyrtec (cetirizine)
- Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
- Atarax / Vistaril (hydroxyzine)
- Phenergan (promethazine)
- Astelin / Azelastine nasal spray
- Dymista nasal spray
- Actifed, Contac, Deconamine, Dimetapp, Trinalin, Periactin, Rynatan, Tavist, Triaminic
- Any over-the-counter cold or allergy medication containing an antihistamine
If you are unsure whether a medication contains an antihistamine, call our office before stopping it.
Medications You CAN Continue
- Most blood pressure medications
- Inhaled asthma medications (inhalers)
- Nasal steroid sprays (Flonase, Nasacort, Nasonex) — these do not affect skin test results
- Most other prescription medications (confirm with our office if unsure)
Day of Testing — What to Do
- You may eat and drink normally before your appointment
- Wear a short-sleeved or loose shirt for easy access to your forearms
- Bring a complete list of all current medications
- Arrive on time — the testing process takes approximately 60–90 minutes
What Happens During the Test
A small amount of each allergen extract is placed on your forearm or upper back in a grid pattern. A small plastic lancet is used to lightly prick the skin through each extract — this creates a tiny, superficial scratch that allows the allergen to contact immune cells just below the surface. Most patients feel only very mild discomfort, similar to a light fingernail scratch.
After 15–20 minutes, your provider or nurse will read the results. A positive reaction appears as a small raised bump (called a wheal) surrounded by redness, similar to a mosquito bite. The size of the reaction helps determine the degree of sensitivity.
After the Test
- Any small bumps or itching at the test sites will resolve within 30–60 minutes
- You may apply a topical hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching after results are read
- Resume your regular medications after the appointment
- Your provider will review results with you and discuss next steps, which may include allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops)
Don’t let allergies slow you down. Schedule a comprehensive ENT and allergy evaluation at Sleep and Sinus Centers of Georgia. We’re here to find your triggers and guide you toward lasting relief.