For residents of Jacksonville and surrounding areas dealing with chronic sinus problems, allergy testing can be an important diagnostic step to help identify potential triggers and inform personalized treatment options. In some cases, untreated allergies may contribute to symptoms such as congestion, inflammation, coughing, or breathing difficulties. By consulting with an ENT specialist, patients can explore whether allergies are playing a role in their sinus issues and consider more individualized treatment strategies aimed at symptom relief.
Discover Your Unique Allergy Profile
Each person’s allergies are unique, even if symptoms seem similar. An ENT specialist can evaluate your specific allergies and develop a treatment plan tailored just for you. Many people mistake their sinus issues for colds or headaches, not realizing that allergies may be the cause. At Jacksonville Breathe Free, we are committed to educating and supporting our patients. Take our assessment to reflect on your sinus symptoms and learn more about their potential impact.
What is Allergy Testing?
Allergy testing determines whether your immune system reacts excessively to certain substances, known as allergens. These allergens can include mold, pet dander, pollen, and more. Allergy testing helps pinpoint potential triggers behind your symptoms — giving your care team clearer direction for treatment. This information is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan.
Types of Allergy Testing We Offer
At Jacksonville Breathe Free, we provide various types of allergy testing to suit your needs. Here are the options available:
- Skin Prick Testing: Skin prick testing on the arm provides a quick and effective way to determine your sensitivity to common allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. This test is painless, safe, and can be adjusted based on age or comfort level. Modern skin prick tests are similar to gentle scratches that don’t break the skin or cause bleeding.
- The process begins with cleaning the arm with alcohol to remove any foreign substances. Small marks are then made around the areas to be tested. The skin is gently pricked, and a solution containing a small amount of the allergen is applied. Two control pricks are also done for comparison: one with saline and the other with histamine (which should cause a mild allergic reaction).
- We measure your skin’s response to each allergen by observing the reaction. If you’re allergic to a substance, you might notice a small bump, or “wheal,” possibly surrounded by redness, known as a “flare.” By comparing these reactions to the saline and histamine controls, we can identify which allergens trigger your symptoms and their severity, allowing us to create a personalized treatment plan for you.
- Blood Testing: The most appropriate type of allergy testing for you depends on your medical history, health conditions, and specific allergy concerns. While skin testing is often the preferred method, there are situations where blood testing may be necessary. We work closely with your healthcare team and thoroughly review your medical history to ensure your allergy test is both safe and accurate. Blood testing may be recommended in the following circumstances:
- Medication Interference: If certain medications you’re taking could affect the accuracy of a skin test, blood testing may be a better option. In some cases, your doctor may temporarily pause your medication for testing, or our team can use blood samples or lab results obtained before exposure to specific substances.
- Skin Conditions: Conditions like psoriasis or eczema can make it difficult to obtain accurate results from a skin test, making blood testing a more reliable alternative.
- Unusual Allergic Reactions: If you experience atypical allergic reactions, blood tests may be a more effective option than traditional methods like open-air testing.
- Intradermal Skin Testing: In a standard skin test, certain allergens may not cause a visible reaction on the skin’s surface, requiring a different approach. That’s where the intradermal skin test comes in. This test involves using a small needle to inject a tiny amount of the allergen just below the skin’s surface, which may cause mild discomfort for a brief moment. Intradermal tests are often used for allergens like penicillin, other medication allergies, and insect venoms from wasps, hornets, and bees. Just like with a regular skin test, the procedure is safe and conducted under close supervision to ensure your safety and comfort.
Benefits of Allergy Testing
If you’re considering allergy testing, Jacksonville Breathe Free is your go-to provider. Allergy testing helps you identify the allergens causing your sinus issues, allowing you to avoid them and create a targeted treatment plan. This can support more effective symptom management and help improve daily comfort.
Allergy Treatments We Offer
We offer comprehensive treatment plans tailored to your specific allergies and medical history. Options may include:
- Allergy Medication: Depending on the severity of your allergies, we may recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications.
- Allergy Immunotherapy: For long-term relief, consider allergy shots or drops which can help your immune system build tolerance and reduce allergic reactions over time.
- Medical Procedures: We also offer non-invasive procedures to treat sinus issues that exacerbate allergy symptoms.
Why Choose Jacksonville Breathe Free?
Choosing the right facility for your allergy testing and treatment is essential. At Jacksonville Breathe Free, our board-certified ENT specialists provide advanced testing and personalized care in a modern facility. At Jacksonville Breathe Free, our trusted specialists provide expert care for allergy and sinus relief.
