Skin Tests

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What are skin tests?

If you are experiencing allergy symptoms or reactions but are unsure of the substance causing discomfort, skin tests can identify the exact allergen in just a single visit. By administering a skin test, your provider can check for allergic reactions to over 50 different substances at once, such as pollen, mold, foods, pet dander, and dust mites. Skin test results give your provider the proper data they need to develop a customized treatment plan that builds your immune system's allergen tolerance over time. As part of our commitment to innovation and patient-first care, Premier Allergy & Asthma remains at the forefront of allergy diagnostics and education.

Types of skin tests

Needle-Free Scratch Test

If you’ve consumed food that triggers swelling, inflammation, and redness of the mouth, cheeks, lips, or tongue, you may have an allergy that warrants treatment and care from one of our compassionate providers. We’re not in the business of causing you any more pain than you are already in. That’s why we’re proud to offer skin testing without invasive needles. Instead, your provider uses a small plastic device that applies tiny amounts of allergens to your forearm with a quick scratch or prick. If you’re allergic to one or more of the applied substances, a small spot will develop on the skin within 15–20 minutes. Swelling usually subsides within 30 minutes to 2 hours. like allergic rhinitis, allergic disease, or allergic condition may also be contributing factors.

Patch Test

If you are dealing with symptoms from a contact allergen, such as poison ivy, your provider may recommend a patch test. After adding a variety of allergens to a small patch, your provider will then place it to the skin on your back or forearm. You’ll typically wear the patch for two days before returning to the office. At your second visit, your provider will check for skin reactions such as bumps and swelling. Because some substances cause delayed reactions, you may be asked to wear the patch an additional 3–4 days.

What to expect

Step 1

Step 1

For a scratch test, your provider will place a tiny amount of allergen to the skin and administer a small prick to expose the skin. If you opt for a patch test, your provider will apply allergens to the patch and place it on your skin to wear for 48 hours.

Step 2

Step 2

There are about 26 common fragrances that may cause allergic reactions. Some of the most common compounds include linalool, citral, benzyl alcohol, and citronellol.

Step 3

Step 3

Your skin test reactions will help your provider discover your exact allergy. After determining these results, your provider will outline a variety of treatment plans, including oral immunotherapy and allergy shots, to set you on the path toward an allergy-free life.

Imagine...

Knowing exactly what’s causing your discomfort

Less trial and error with products and environments

A clear plan for feeling better, faster

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Care you can trust

8
Award-winning providers
13
Locations across Ohio
500+
5-Star Google Reviews

"Came to my first treatment session, I went home the next day and I could breathe again. This is liberating for my life."

John

Award-winning, board-certified providers

Every provider on our team is hand-selected for their clinical skill, compassion, and commitment to education. Many of our allergists and immunologists have trained at top institutions, follow cutting-edge research, and are active in leading national allergy organizations.

Meet the Providers

MD, FAAAAI

Dr. Summit Shah

MD, FAAAAI

Dr. Andy Dang

MD

Dr. Gital K. Patel

MD

Dr. Meenakshi Rana

CNP

Benjamin Boerner

CNP

Katie Lacy

CNP

Julie Gillen-Zinsmeister

NP

Jessica Randolph

MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Carly Jones

MD, FAAAAI

Dr. Summit Shah

MD, FAAAAI

Dr. Andy Dang

MD

Dr. Gital K. Patel

MD

Dr. Meenakshi Rana

CNP

Benjamin Boerner

CNP

Katie Lacy

CNP

Julie Gillen-Zinsmeister

NP

Jessica Randolph

MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Carly Jones

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Frequently asked questions

If your skin test shows an allergic reaction, you are one step closer to becoming symptom-free. At this time, your provider will craft a unique plan to prevent and treat seasonal allergies, food allergy, environmental allergies, allergy asthma, and more. Our allergy immunotherapy and food immunotherapy programs are designed to train your immune system to become less and less sensitive to the substances that cause a reaction. After testing positive for one or more allergies, avoid or limit contact with your allergens to the best of your ability. For example, if you are allergic to pet dander, avoid coming in contact with cats, dogs, and other furry creatures. Your provider may prescribe medication such as decongestants, nasal sprays, antihistamines, or eye drops to temporarily relieve your symptoms.

Skin tests are a completely safe way to diagnose your allergies. Because your provider is testing miniscule amounts of allergens to the skin in a sterile and controlled environment, you can rest assured that this quick and minimally invasive procedure is safe and effective. During the test, your provider will monitor you closely for a possible severe allergic reaction, which is extremely rare. Our board-certified team has experience treating children and adults, including cases involving eosinophilic esophagitis, medication allergy, and drug allergy.

While many health insurance plans cover allergy testing and treatment plans, be sure to connect with your carrier first. Insurance policies do differ, and it’s up to the patient to understand their coverage. Consult with your provider so you know exactly what’s covered and what will likely be out-of-pocket.

Wherever you are, we've got you covered

We believe world-class allergy care should be accessible and inclusive for all. Premier Allergy & Asthma offers 13 award-winning boutique clinics conveniently located across Ohio that provide innovative solutions, efficient appointments, and professional care in positive environments.

Westerville
New Albany
Marion
Reynoldsburg
Lancaster
Marysville
Lewis Center
Grove City
Grandview
Dublin
Canal Winchester
Bellefontaine
Hilliard