The Allergy Department offers allergy testing and treatment following the American Association of Otolaryngic Allergy guidelines. We have two ways in which to test for allergies, skin testing and RAST testing. Skin testing is just that, allergy testing on the skin. The upper portion of the arm is used. After a thorough allergy history is reviewed, a series of skin injections is performed to identify the offending allergens.
RAST testing is allergy testing on a single specimen of blood.
This type of testing is preferred for patients who can not discontinue certain medications which may interfere with skin testing, the elderly, and the young. After the allergy testing is completed, and allergies have been identified, the Allergy Department staff offers counseling concerning avoidance, environmental control of allergens, medications, and treatment options. Literature concerning these subjects is available to our patients. Immunotherapy is a long term treatment plan that utilizes the body's immune system to combat the production of allergic symptoms. There is no cure for allergies, but if all recommended environmental controls and immunotherapy instructions are followed, the general health and quality of life of the allergic patient can be greatly improved.