Allergy testing and treatment are a vital part of modern medicine, particularly as allergies become more prevalent in society. At Summit Integrated Health, we understand the impact of allergies on your daily life and offer allergy testing in Las Vegas to help you identify and manage your allergies. Our multidisciplinary team of medical professionals uses the latest technologies and treatment methods to identify allergens and manage your symptoms.
What are Allergies?
If you experience discomfort and distress after coming into contact with certain substances in the environment, you may have allergies. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, as many as 40 to 50 million people in the United States have allergies or asthma. An allergy is when your immune system overreacts to a typically harmless substance, known as an allergen, in your environment. This overreaction often manifests in a range of uncomfortable and sometimes severe symptoms, depending on the type of allergy.
Allergens can be present in various forms, including inhaled allergens like pollen, which are the most common. Ingested allergens like peanuts, shellfish, and soy are also common. Contact allergens, such as those found in poison ivy, can cause a reaction on the skin. It’s essential to identify the type of allergen that triggers your symptoms to manage them effectively. Allergy testing in Las Vegas is a helpful tool in identifying the specific allergens causing your symptoms, allowing you to avoid or manage your exposure to them.
Symptoms:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Skin rashes or hives
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing or coughing
- Stomach cramps or diarrhea
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache or fatigue
- Anaphylaxis (a life-threatening reaction that affects the whole body)
Common Allergens:
- Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds
- Mold spores
- Dust mites
- Animal dander, such as from cats or dogs
- Insect bites and stings, including from bees, wasps, and mosquitoes
- Foods, such as peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, eggs, milk, and soy
- Medications, such as antibiotics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Latex, often found in rubber gloves and balloons
- Chemicals, such as those found in fragrances, cleaning products, and pesticides
Allergy Testing: Skin Prick or Scratch Test
Allergy testing is essential in identifying the allergens that cause your symptoms. A skin prick or scratch test is a common method to test for allergies. Your healthcare provider will clean the skin on your forearm or upper back. During your allergy testing in Las Vegas, we will apply a small amount of suspected allergens and use a pricking device to introduce them beneath the skin.
After about 20 minutes, your healthcare provider will check for an allergic reaction, typically a raised bump or swelling at the site. The size and appearance of the reaction can help determine the severity of the allergy. Skin prick or scratch tests are generally safe and minimally invasive, making them a practical and effective way to identify specific allergens.
Risks & Safety
Allergy testing is generally safe. As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, but the benefits of allergy testing outweigh these risks. The most severe risk associated with allergy testing is anaphylactic shock, but this is rare, and our healthcare team is prepared to handle any complications that may arise. Overall, allergy testing is a safe and effective way to identify specific allergens and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Side Effects
While a skin prick test is a safe and minimally invasive method of allergy testing in Las Vegas, there are some possible side effects. A positive test result can cause a swollen bump or hives at the test site, typically fading within a few hours. In rare cases, a whole-body reaction can occur, but this is uncommon. Your healthcare provider can help you manage any side effects and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage for allergy testing and treatment can vary depending on the specific plan. While most insurance plans cover these services, it’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand the specifics of your coverage. At Summit Integrated Health, we’re committed to working with patients to help them maximize their insurance benefits. Our team can assist with insurance verification and provide guidance on coverage options.
Candidates
Allergy testing is a valuable tool for anyone experiencing allergy symptoms, but it is especially important for those with a family history of serious allergies. Many people suffer from mild but frustrating symptoms for extended periods without realizing that an allergen in their environment or diet is causing them. Allergy testing in Las Vegas can identify the specific allergens causing these symptoms, allowing for targeted treatment and prevention strategies.
Allergy Treatment: Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is an allergy treatment that exposes the patient to gradually increasing doses of the allergen over time, helping the immune system become less sensitive to the allergens. Immunotherapy can reduce or eliminate allergy symptoms for many patients. The benefits can be long-lasting, and some patients experience a complete resolution of their allergy symptoms. The most common forms of immunotherapy are SCIT and SLIT.
Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT)
Allergy shots, also known as subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), are the most commonly used form of immunotherapy for allergy treatment. The treatment involves gradually increasing doses of the allergen, starting with a very small amount and gradually increasing the dosage over time. Allergy shots are administered regularly over several months or even years, depending on the severity of the allergy.
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is another form of immunotherapy that involves placing a tablet or liquid containing the allergen under the tongue. This form of immunotherapy is less invasive and can be administered at home, but it may not be as effective as allergy shots. SLIT is typically recommended for patients who cannot receive allergy shots due to medical reasons or other factors.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you suspect you have an allergy, seeking medical attention is essential. At Summit Integrated Health, we offer comprehensive allergy testing in Las Vegas and treatment services to help patients manage their allergies effectively. Our team of healthcare professionals determines the cause of your symptoms and develops a personalized treatment plan to provide relief. To schedule a consultation or learn more about our services, please contact us today.