What is Seasonal Allergy testing?
Seasonal allergies occur when your immune system reacts to airborne pollens released by trees (spring), grasses (late spring/summer), and weeds like ragweed (late summer/fall). Typical symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, runny/itchy nose, itchy/watery eyes, sore throat, cough, and fatigue.
What to expect during testing?
- Brief history to map symptoms to local pollen seasons.
- Skin prick testing on forearm or back with tiny drops of multiple pollens; results in 15–20 minutes (small, itchy “wheal”).
- If needed, intradermal testing or specific IgE blood tests.
- Guidance on temporarily stopping antihistamines 5–7 days before skin testing (only if safe for you).
- Personalized plan reviewed the same day.
