Sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and a constant postnasal drip are easy to write off as "just part of living here." In Southern California, with trees, grasses, and weeds pollinating for much of the year, many people live with allergy symptoms they have never had properly evaluated.
Allergies are more than a nuisance. Ongoing congestion can disrupt sleep, and poor sleep can leave you feeling tired and less sharp during the day. Allergies can also make asthma harder to control. Knowing what you are actually reacting to is often the first step toward feeling better.
When allergy testing makes sense
Allergy testing is most useful when your symptoms and history point to allergies. For example:
- Nasal or sinus symptoms that come back season after season
- Itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, or congestion that don't go away
- Symptoms that get worse around pets, dust, or mold
- Asthma that seems to flare with certain exposures
- Over-the-counter medications that aren't giving you enough relief
Your clinician will start with your history and an exam, then decide whether testing is appropriate for you.
How skin testing works
Skin prick testing places tiny amounts of common allergens on the skin and checks for a reaction, usually within about 15 to 20 minutes. Our panel focuses on environmental triggers common in Southern California, including local trees, grasses, weeds, molds, dust mites, and animal dander. You may need to stop certain medications, such as antihistamines, for several days before testing, and our team will tell you exactly what to do.
A positive skin test doesn't always mean that allergen is causing your symptoms. That's why your clinician reviews your results alongside your history before making any recommendations. If you've ever had a severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylaxis, tell us before testing. You may be better served by an allergy specialist.
What happens after testing
Based on your results and symptoms, your plan may include steps to reduce exposure at home, medications to control symptoms, and a referral to an allergist if you are a candidate for allergy shots or other immunotherapy.
Insurance
Allergy testing may be covered by your insurance when your symptoms and history support it. We check your benefits before testing so you know what to expect.
If allergy symptoms are wearing you down, request an appointment and we'll help you figure out whether testing makes sense for you.
This article is for general information and isn't medical advice. Talk with a licensed clinician about your symptoms.
