Diagnostic Procedures

Quick visits, tailored treatments, real results

Doctor and patient talking

What are diagnostic procedures?

Your symptoms and struggles are just as unique as you are. Our providers break the on-size-fits all approach to allergy and asthma care by offering a variety of diagnostic procedures. Together, we can determine the underlying cause of your symptoms, outline your individualized treatment, and guide you back to better health.

While your symptoms and medical history may clearly point to allergies and asthma, they may not reveal the specific substance triggering a reaction. Our skin, patch, blood, and spirometry tests can identify the exact allergen or asthma trigger causing discomfort in just a single visit. After diagnosing the root issue, your provider will craft a customized immunotherapy plan to kickstart your journey toward an allergy and asthma-free life.

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Types of diagnostic procedures

Needle-free Scratch Test

Painful pokes are a thing of the past with our minimally invasive scratch tests. Instead, your provider uses a small plastic device that applies tiny amounts of allergens to your skin with a quick scratch or prick. If you’re allergic to one or more of the substances, the treated area will develop a minor reaction within 15-20 minutes.

Patch Test

If your symptoms suggest a contact allergen, such as a poison ivy rash, your provider will administer a patch test. The patch contains a variety of allergens and is applied to the skin on your back. After wearing the patch for 48 hours, you will return to the office for a reaction check-up. Because some substances cause delayed reactions, your provider will ask you to wear the patch for an additional 3-4 days.

Blood Test

If you are unable to undergo a patch or scratch test, or your results are uncertain, your provider may recommend a blood test to identify allergens. The team at Premier Allergy & Asthma also uses blood testing to diagnose immune system deficiencies and evaluate patients with chronic hives.

Spirometry

Spirometry is a breathing treatment used to diagnose asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and other respiratory conditions. During a spirometry test, you’ll breathe through your mouth into a tube as hard as you can, repeating the test several times to be sure your results are consistent.

What I can expect during my diagnostic procedure

1.

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To begin, a provider will analyze your medical records. They may request X-rays and CT scans prior to your appointment, which are taken at a hospital or radiology center. This data will help your provider get a better understanding of your history so they can properly diagnose the issues at hand.

2.

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Next, your provider will take the time to listen to your pain points and discuss your treatment goals so a custom plan can be made to fit your unique needs. After an honest discussion and thorough evaluation, your provider will recommend one of our various cutting-edge treatments that will provide quick relief and long-term results.

3.

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At this time, your provider will conduct a quick test to begin your journey back to an allergy and asthma-free life. While every patient and procedure is different, you will be encouraged to schedule several follow-up visits to ensure treatment is working and relief is in reach.

Frequently asked questions

What happens after my diagnostic procedure?

After your diagnostic procedure results indicate your exact allergy or asthma issue, your provider will sit down with you and discuss the best immunotherapy treatment for you and your needs. We offer traditional treatments to help your body build immunity to your allergen over years, as well as accelerated treatment plans that can alleviate symptoms in a shorter amount of time. Your provider will work closely with you to make sure you understand your options and next steps so you can feel confident about getting the results you deserve.

Are diagnostic procedures safe?

All diagnostic procedures are safe and effective. Because your body is receiving such tiny doses of allergens, your immune system is only capable of producing a minimal reaction. After administering a scratch, patch, blood, or spirometry test, your provider will monitor you to make sure you are safe and secure. In the rare case of a severe symptom, our team is on stand-by to promptly assess and treat the allergic reaction.

Are diagnostic procedures covered by insurance?

Most insurance policies fully cover diagnostic procedures such as scratch, patch, blood, or spirometry tests. However, we highly recommend understanding your insurance benefits before beginning your procedure. To learn more about your coverage, consult with your provider and give our office a call at (614) 482-3980 to see how we can help you maximize your insurance benefits.

Dr. rana