Doctors perform skin tests to identify substances that trigger allergic reactions. The most common type is a skin prick test, where a tiny amount of the suspected allergen is placed on the skin and pricked with a small needle called a lancet. This procedure allows the allergen to enter the skin and potentially trigger a reaction.
Here's a breakdown of the steps involved in a skin prick test:
- Preparation: The doctor will ask about your medical history and any previous allergic reactions.
- Marking: The doctor or nurse will mark the skin with numbers to indicate where each allergen will be tested.
- Pricking: A small amount of each allergen is placed on the marked areas and pricked with a lancet.
- Observation: The skin is observed for a reaction, typically within 15-20 minutes. A raised, red, itchy bump indicates a positive reaction.
- Interpretation: The doctor will interpret the results and discuss the findings with you.
Skin tests are typically performed for allergies to common substances such as pollen, dust mites, mold, food, and medications.
