Which is better – blood or skin testing?
Both skin and blood testing are effective ways determine what is causing your allergy symptoms. Skin testing is done in the office, answers are available within 15-20 minutes, it is relatively painless and costs less money. Blood testing does not require that you stop allergy medication but does requires a tube of blood to be drawn; blood testing can provide you with a large amount of information.
What kinds of allergy testing do we do?
We perform skin prick testing, intradermal testing, patch testing and specialty testing for antibiotic drugs, medications and venoms.
Is there anything that can be taken to help relieve allergy symptoms for the five days prior to the appointment with no antihistamines in them?
You can safely take prescription Singulair and various nasal sprays (steroid and decongestants).
What if I can’t stop my antihistamines for five days prior to my appointment for allergy testing?
Keep the appointment. We will discuss how to proceed with your current allergy care until testing can be completed; we may also order a blood test.
Why is it so important for me to get my records from my previous allergist when I just want to get retested and start from scratch?
If possible, it is helpful for us to compare the current results to previous tests and monitor the progression of your allergies. In addition, levels of allergens may change over time and it is helpful to review medications that have been used in the past as well as labs that have been previously done.
Why is having a referral sent to our office important, even when I have a PPO?
We like to communicate with your primary care provider and other health care providers.
Why do I need to fill out new patient paperwork when I have seen your providers previously?
The Allergy Center at Sacramento Ear, Nose & Throat needs to have the updated information and our providers can only access previous records with your permission.
Why does an allergy testing appointment take more than an hour?
Your allergy testing appointment takes so long for many reasons. Patient are evaluated by a provider; this is when they will ask questions, review the health screener, perform a physical exam, and administer breathing tests. They will also perform testing, such as skin prick testing (which takes about 30 minutes). Intradermal testing may be added as well as spirometry testing and a review of your test results. There is also time scheduled into the appointment to discuss your plan of care.
Can a Nurse Practitioner do allergy testing?
Yes.
Why do you want to take my picture?
We take photographs of our patients to protect their identity. This helps prevent patients from someone fraudulently using their insurance. All information is HIPAA protected.
Why must I bring in my photo ID and insurance card?
To verify the identity of the person at the appointment and to confirm that your insurance information is current and correct.
What if I can’t make my appointment?
Your appointment time is valuable and has been reserved specifically for you. If it is necessary to reschedule your appointment, please provide us with 48 hours’ notice. Patients failing to notify us will be required to provide a $50.00 non-refundable deposit prior to scheduling another appointment.