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If you are like a lot of people, you are allergic to something. For most people, allergies mean itchy, watery eyes and a runny nose. But for some, allergic reactions to such things as bee stings or nuts can cause a life-threatening reaction. Whether your allergies are dangerous or just inconvenient, the Heart & Lung Clinic at St. Alexius can help.

For people suffering from allergies, testing can be done to determine what is triggering an allergic reaction. Skin tests are the most common test done because they are rapid and reliable. During a skin test a small amount of a substance or allergen is placed on or below the skin to see if a reaction develops. There are three types of skin tests:

• Skin prick test: this test is done by placing a drop of a solution containing a possible allergen on the skin. A small needle prick allows the solution to enter the skin. If the skin develops a red, raised, itchy area (called a wheal), it means that the person is allergic to that allergen.
• Intradermal test: this test is done by injecting a small amount of the allergen solution into the skin. This test may be done if the skin prick test does not cause a reaction but is still suspected as an allergen for that person.
• Skin patch test: for this test, the allergen solution is placed on a pad that is taped to the skin for 24 to 72 hours. This test is used to detect a skin allergy called contact dermatitis.

Tests and Treatments
Disease Management