Some people come to an allergist with a pretty good idea of what’s behind their symptoms, while others have no idea what’s causing them. So whether you think you know the trigger or you just aren’t sure, getting a diagnosis is the key to determining the best food allergy treatment plan. But exactly how does an Atlanta allergist diagnose a suspected food allergy? Here’s a closer look at what the diagnostic process involves.
How an Allergy Specialist Diagnoses Food Allergies
Diagnosing a food allergy takes more than a single test. Allergists use a range of tools and methods to develop a complete picture of how your body responds to certain foods.
Reviewing Symptoms and Reaction History
Food allergies can trigger a range of symptoms including hives, swelling, digestive issues, breathing problems and, in severe cases, anaphylaxis. Your allergist will want to know the symptoms you experienced, and how quickly they appeared after eating. To provide accurate symptom information it is very helpful to keep a food diary.
Medical History and Physical Exam
Understanding a patient’s personal and family history of allergies can contribute to a diagnosis. During a consultation, allergists will want to know if you have any other allergies, asthma or eczema, and whether you’re taking any medication that could interfere with an allergy test. A simple physical exam may also be performed to detect signs of allergies, such as hives or eczema.
Using Skin Prick Testing
Skin prick testing is usually the first test performed to reveal a food allergy. During this monitored test, small amounts of various food allergens are placed on the skin, which is then lightly pricked to allow the liquid to get beneath the surface. The patient is observed and reactions are noted. While a raised red bump may indicate a possible reaction, the treatment approach taken after a food allergy diagnosis will be based on an assessment of all available information.
Ordering Blood Tests
Blood testing is commonly used when skin prick testing is not suitable for a patient, such as when the patient is taking certain medications or when severe eczema is present. A blood test may also be used when skin prick testing is inconclusive. After sending a blood sample for laboratory analysis, your allergist will need to interpret the results to make an accurate diagnosis.
Conducting an Oral Food Challenge
While an oral food challenge takes more time, it is considered to be the gold standard in food allergy testing. The oral food challenge is conducted under medical supervision, and the patient is continually monitored for reactions. During the challenge the patient consumes small amounts of the suspected problem food that become larger as the test continues. Oral food challenges are valuable when results from other food allergy testing approaches are unclear, or when an allergist wants to evaluate whether or not a patient has outgrown the allergy.
Visit Our Atlanta-Area Centers for a Food Allergy Diagnosis
When you or your child experience food allergy symptoms, getting an accurate diagnosis is important. Our allergists provide food allergy testing and treatment at locations across Atlanta. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment.
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