If you’re suffering from allergies that don’t seem to get better with over-the-counter products, it’s time to schedule allergy testing with a professional. At Allergy and Asthma Specialty Center/Masood Ahmad, M.D., in West Chester, OH, an allergist will use advanced techniques to determine which triggers you should avoid.

Why Schedule Allergy Testing?

Improving Treatment

Allergy testing usually involves exposing a patient to a small amount of a potential allergen. This can help identify everything from a food allergy to seasonal allergies. The allergist will monitor the patient for a reaction, helping them more easily determine the ideal course of treatment.

This is essential if you’ve found it difficult to treat your allergies. If you don’t know what you’re allergic to, it’s almost impossible to fully avoid triggers. For a doctor to offer the best possible treatment, they need to know exactly what a patient reacts to. If you and your doctor have been unable to substantially reduce your symptoms, contact a specialist who offers allergy testing.

How It’s Performed

Depending on a patient’s needs, allergy testing could be as simple as pricking the skin with a tiny needle that contains a small amount of a potential allergen. However, sometimes patients are on medications that could interfere with the results of a skin test. In these instances, a blood test is necessary.

Keep in mind that allergy testing alone may not be sufficient to provide an accurate diagnosis. It’s also important for the specialist to have access to your relevant medical records. By comparing the results of the test to the other available information, they can arrive at the most accurate possible diagnosis.

To learn more, schedule an appointment at Allergy and Asthma Specialty Center/Masood Ahmad, M.D., in West Chester, OH. They’ll work hard to make sure you get the right treatment for your needs. Contact them online to ask about becoming a patient, or call (513) 777-7097.