Allergy

Allergies are very common, affecting as many as one out of every five people in the United States. Knowing the allergen causing your allergy symptoms is essential for getting the right treatment. At the offices of Richard D. Orgill, MD, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, offers in-office allergy testing to assist in the development of your treatment plan. For an appointment, call the office, or request an appointment online today.

What are allergies?

Allergies refer to a condition in which your immune system overreacts to a substance it considers harmful. You can develop an allergy to anything at any time. However, some allergens are more common than others, such as:

• Grass and pollen
• Dust mites
• Pet dander
• Insects
• Food (peanuts, shellfish)
• Medications
• Latex

You may be more likely to develop an allergy if they run in your family or if you have a medical history of asthma. Children are also at greater risk of developing allergies.

What are allergy symptoms?

Your allergy symptoms vary depending on the substance you’re allergic to. Common allergy symptoms include:

• Itchy, watery eyes
• Scratchy throat or tongue
• Coughing and sneezing
• Rash or hives
• Wheezing
• Swollen tongue or throat

In severe cases, your allergy may lead to anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, nausea, and vomiting. 

What is an allergy test?

At the office of Richard D. Orgill, MD, in-office allergy skin testing is available to determine the allergen responsible for your symptoms. The test includes some of the most common environmental allergens. 

You receive specific instructions on how to prepare for your allergy skin test, which may include stopping your allergy medication (antihistamine pills or sprays) one week prior to your test. If you take steroids, you get very specific instructions on how to prepare for the allergy test so you can get the best possible results.

What can I expect during an allergy test?

Dr. Orgill may use a skin prick test, skin injection test, or a patch test to test antigens on your skin.

After a few minutes, if you have allergies, you develop red bumps on your arms that can be quite itchy, depending on how strongly allergic you are to the particular allergen. 

During allergy testing, you’re under close observation throughout the entire process to monitor for any adverse reactions. Due to the nature of the test, the risk of a severe or anaphylactic reaction is low, but you do need to remain at the office throughout the entire testing period. 

What happens after an allergy test?

After your skin allergy testing, Dr. Orgill reviews the results with you that same day and provides a personalized, comprehensive treatment plan to help you get relief from your symptoms. You may continue to experience bumps and itchiness for a short time after your test, but you can get medication to alleviate your discomfort.

To schedule your comprehensive allergy evaluation and testing, call the office of Richard D. Orgill, MD, or request an appointment online today.