Allergy Skin Prick Testing Information

What is Skin Prick Testing?

Skin prick testing is a safe and commonly used method to help diagnose allergies. It involves placing small amounts of allergens on your skin (usually your forearm or back) and painlessly pricking the top layer of skin so the allergen can enter. If you are allergic, a small raised bump (like a mosquito bite) will appear.

The skin prick testing process takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. After the allergens are applied, you will be asked to wait in the waiting room for 20 minutes.

Following this, a clinician will assess the test by measuring the diameter of any raised bumps to determine if an allergic reaction has occurred.

How to Prepare for Your Test:

To ensure accurate results, please do not take the following medications for 5 days prior to your appointment:

• Antihistamines 

If you are unsure whether your medication falls into these categories, please check with your doctor or pharmacist.

Contraindications – Who Should Not Have Skin Prick Testing:

Please inform us before your appointment if you have any of the following:

• You are currently pregnant

• You have severe, unstable asthma

• You have dermographism (a condition where your skin becomes raised and inflamed easily from minor pressure)

If any of these apply to you, we will discuss alternative options for allergy testing.

After Skin Prick Testing:

• Mild redness, swelling, or itchiness at the test sites is common and usually settles within a few hours.

• You can use an antihistamine after the test if needed for comfort (unless advised otherwise).

• Avoid scratching the test sites to prevent irritation or infection.

• You can return to normal activities immediately after your appointment.

• If you experience any unusual or concerning symptoms after your test, please contact Allergy One or seek medical advice.

Questions?

If you have any concerns or need to clarify medication use, please contact Allergy One before your appointment.