For some patients, allergies may be obvious and instantly appear; for others, the symptoms may not start for hours after consuming the food, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of the trouble. Food allergy testing can help you determine the specific foods you are allergic to and ensure you avoid them in the future. 

How Food Allergy Testing Works

Your food allergy testing will be customized to your specific needs. There are several testing methods available to help your provider determine the cause of your allergies. Some of the most common tests used include:

Skin Prick

In this method, a skin prick can be used to determine your reaction to specific foods. A small amount of the specific food will be placed on your skin; then, the provider will use a small needle to prick the skin. This allows a tiny amount of the food to go beneath the skin’s surface and see if there is a reaction. If you are allergic to the item, a small, raised bump will appear on the skin.

Blood Test

For this test, a blood sample is taken and sent to a laboratory where it can be tested. The blood will be tested for allergy-related antibodies and can be tested for a variety of foods.

Elimination Diet

After meeting with your provider, they will ask you to eliminate specific foods from your diet and then slowly add them back in one at a time. This will allow the provider to pinpoint what foods are causing a reaction.

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Symptoms a Food Allergy May Cause 

Having a food allergy test can help prevent future allergic reactions. Food allergies are typically found to affect three main areas of the body: the skin, the digestive system, and in more serious cases, the respiratory system. 

Reactions in the skin can include hives, itching, redness, or tingling. In the digestive system, there may be itching or swelling of the tongue or abdominal pain. In the respiratory system, you may experience coughing or wheezing, congestion, trouble breathing, or shortness of breath in more severe cases.

Benefits of Allergy Testing

Allergy testing can help prevent severe allergic reactions, or even more minor ones that are impacting your quality of life. By knowing what foods to avoid, you’ll be able to live more comfortably and without concern over your next food allergy reaction.

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About Texas ENT Specialists

Texas ENT Specialists provides comprehensive ENT care for all your concerns and conditions. With 15 convenient locations across the greater Houston area, we’re always here when you need us. We pride ourselves on our:

Personalized Treatment

All of your services and treatments will be customized to fit your specific needs. We know that each patient is unique — and your treatment should be, too.

Top-Rated Physician Network

Each of our locations has providers who are board-certified and fellowship-trained, so you can rest assured that you’re in excellent hands.

Centers of Excellence

Our locations are equipped with the latest technology so that we can provide thorough care and deliver a seamless patient experience.

Continuity of Care

Our goal is always long-term relief. We provide treatments with this goal always at the forefront.

Who Is a Candidate for Food Allergy Testing?

Most patients are a candidate for food allergy testing. If you have noticed skin rashes, itchiness, redness, abdominal pain, or other symptoms after eating, you should seek out a food allergy testing facility.

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What to Expect from Your Visit

When you arrive, you will meet with your provider to discuss your allergy concerns. They may ask preliminary questions about your allergy history, family history, and symptoms. After this, they will recommend the proper test.

We no longer do testing in the office, but can possibly make a recommendation. 

Food Allergy Testing FAQ's

How do I know if I have a food allergy?

The earliest sign of a food allergy is experiencing symptoms after eating a specific food, or feeling unwell after eating. Testing is the only way to conclusively determine if you are allergic to a specific food.

Which test method will be used for me?

The test used will depend on your specific symptoms and needs. It will be determined by your provider at your appointment.

With 15 convenient locations across the greater Houston area, we’re never far away.

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