4849 Van Nuys Blvd , Suite 104, Sherman Oaks CA 91403

Allergy Skin Testing in Valley Village, CA

Allergy Skin Testing in Valley Village, CA

When allergies become inflamed, your day-to-day life can become compromised. But we're not always born knowing what we're allergic to, nor are we born with the foresight of what we will become allergic to. Allergy skin tests can unearth hidden allergies before a reaction hits. What's more, they are administered by a trained healthcare provider in the safety of a medical clinic, providing you peace of mind that you'll find out about any hidden allergies in a safe rather than a precarious environment.

You may have an allergy. Protect yourself from a potentially dangerous allergic reaction by getting your skin tested in Valley Village, call (424) 365-1800 or contact Vitality Integrative Medicine online.

Allergy Skin Test Types

Depending upon suspected allergens, your healthcare provider may recommend one of several different types of allergy skin tests. Skin tests often provide the fastest results, with allergens identified during an in-office visit. In some cases, when potential allergens are completely unknown, your healthcare provider may recommend multiple tests.

Scratch (Prick) Test: A scratch test, which is usually used to identify allergies to pollen, mold, pet dander, dust mites and foods, checks for immediate allergic reactions to as many as 40 different substances at once. Your skin will be cleaned with alcohol, and the areas intended on being tested will be marked with a pen. Allergen drops will be placed on these spots, and the outer layer of your skin will be pricked to allow the allergen to sink in. Your healthcare provider will then monitor your skin for reactions. If you develop an allergic reaction to this test, your skin will develop red, itch bumps similar to that of a mosquito bite. Your skin will be cleaned again with alcohol and the marks will be removed following the test. This test involves minor discomfort, employing needles that barely penetrate your skin's surface.

Skin Injection Test: Skin injection tests, which check for allergies to insect venom or penicillin, consist of allergens being injected into your skin with a needle. It will take about 15 minutes for signs of allergic reactions to develop from a skin injection test.

Patch Test: Patch tests are conducted to determine whether a particular substance is causing allergic skin irritation, and can detect delayed allergic reactions such as those that take a number of days to develop. Allergens are applied to patches, which are then applied to your skin. You must wear these patches on your arms and backs for 48 hours, and should avoid bathing or other activities that could compromise the patches' adhesive (such as exercising). Upon returning to your healthcare provider's office, the patches will be removed. Irritated skin at the patch site may indicate an allergy and will be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Preparing for Your Appointment

Why get an allergy skin test? Minimally, you'll find out you don't have to worry about being allergic to anything. However, a skin test has the potential for exposing allergens that present a risk to you - and what's more, should your test be positive, you'll find out in a safe environment with a healthcare professional present rather than somewhere more precarious.

When you enter your healthcare provider's office, you should let him or her know of any medications you are currently taking, as these may affect the results of the skin test. Your healthcare provider may advice you to stop taking these medications prior to the skin test.

After Your Allergy Skin Test Appointment

Equipped with the knowledge of potential threatening allergens, your healthcare provider with inform you of any steps needed following your appointment. While the sites of application will be cleaned, you may need to apply certain creams (such as cortisone cream) to help with itching. Depending on the severity of the allergies identified, your healthcare provider may provide you with an EpiPen or recommend changes to your diet. They may also offer advice about seasonal allergies , helpful dietary supplements, over-the-counter aids, as well as general allergy tips.

Allergic reactions can pose a serious threat to your health. Protect yourself by getting your skin tested in Valley Village, call (424) 365-1800 or contact Vitality Integrative Medicine online

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Hours and Directions
Vitality Integrative Medicine
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Address

4849 Van Nuys Blvd
Suite 104
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
(424) 365-1800
www.vitalityintegrative.com

Hours

Mon: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Tue: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Wed: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Thu: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Fri: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sat: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Areas We Service:

Studio City, CA, Beverly Hills, CA, Burbank, CA, Encino, CA, Glendale, CA, Los Angeles, CA, North Hollywood, CA, San Fernando, CA, Santa Monica, CA, Tarzana, CA, Toluca Lake, CA, Valley Village, CA, Van Nuys, CA, West Hollywood, CA