Pelican Family Medicine

Allergy Testing

Family Medicine located in Wilmington, NC

Allergy Testing services offered in Wilmington, NC

Are you bothered by the sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy, watery eyes caused by allergies? At Pelican Family Medicine, with two locations in Wilmington, North Carolina, Samuel Armitage, MD, and his team offer comprehensive allergy testing. These tests determine what you’re allergic to and can treat your condition to eliminate bothersome symptoms. Call the nearest Pelican Family Medicine office, or request an allergy testing appointment online today.

Allergy Testing Q&A

What is allergy testing?

Allergy testing includes tests that allow your Pelican Family Medicine provider to determine which allergens cause your body to react negatively. These tests include skin-prick or other tests that help your family medicine specialist properly treat your condition and reduce the crippling symptoms.

What are the symptoms of allergies?

The common symptoms of allergies include:

  • Red, itchy, watery eyes
  • Nasal congestion
  • Runny nose
  • Coughing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Facial or throat swelling
  • Hives or a rash
  • Sneezing

Your body could react negatively to airborne allergens, like mold spores, dust, pollen, or pet dander. Other common allergens include medicines, latex, insect stings, and certain foods.

Do I need allergy testing?

If you have symptoms of allergies or suspect you have them, see the Pelican Family Medicine team for an evaluation. They check your vital signs, complete a physical exam, and review your symptoms and medical history to determine if you’re a candidate for allergy testing. You might also need asthma testing because allergies and asthma often appear together.

What happens during allergy testing?

During allergy testing, you may undergo:

Blood tests

A simple blood test helps determine what your body is allergic to and which medicines are likely the most effective for your genetic makeup.

Skin prick tests

Your specialist might prick your skin with tiny amounts of potential allergens to determine if your skin reacts to it. A red, raised bump (a hive) indicates an allergic reaction.

Patch testing

A patch test doesn’t require a skin prick. Your provider places patches containing potential allergens on your skin and evaluates the affected skin after waiting a short time.

Lung-function tests

Lung-function tests evaluate you for asthma. During the test, you breathe into a specialized device before and after using an inhaler.

What should I expect after allergy testing?

After allergy testing (and asthma testing, if needed), your Pelican Family Medicine provider reviews the results with you and lets you know if you need allergy treatments.

Common treatments for allergies and asthma include taking medication, receiving allergy shots, avoiding allergens, and using an inhaler. You might need emergency epinephrine (EpiPen®) if you risk severe allergic reactions. The Pelican Family Medicine team personalizes each treatment to offer you the most symptom relief.

Call the nearest Pelican Family Medicine office or use the online booking feature to schedule an appointment today.