What To Expect: A
small amount of allergen extract is placed on the skin with a skin test
device that lightly scratches the skin. The average number of screening
skin tests is 10 for children and 30 for adults, depending on your
symptoms. The skin testing lasts for 20 minutes, when we should see the
results of the testing.
Preprocedure: If
you are being evaluated for allergies, we recommend you stop taking
antihistamines (such as Benadryl, Claritin, Allegra, Zyrtec) at least 3
days before your appointment (Clarinex 7 days, Hydroxyzine 10 days). If
you are unsure if you are on an antihistamine, please call our office.
Do not stop your other medications.
Postprocedure: The skin tests may cause some temporary itching at the site of the test if you are allergic.
