Allergies can make everyday life uncomfortable—causing congestion, sneezing, watery eyes, and fatigue that interfere with your ability to breathe and rest well. At North Valley Ear, Nose and Throat Associates, P.C., serving Phoenix and Glendale, AZ, our ENT specialists offer comprehensive allergy testing to identify triggers and develop personalized treatment plans for lasting relief.
Understanding Allergy Testing
Allergy testing determines which specific substances trigger your body’s reaction. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, and certain foods. After identifying your unique allergens, your ENT provider can recommend treatments that go beyond temporary symptom relief.
Types of Allergy Tests
At North Valley ENT, we use safe, reliable methods to diagnose allergies accurately. Allergy tests commonly performed include:
Skin prick testing: Small amounts of potential allergens are placed on the skin to check for a reaction such as redness or swelling. The benefit is that skin prick tests provide results quickly, typically within 15–20 minutes.
Intradermal testing: This test is used when skin prick results are unclear and additional detail is needed. The allergen is placed just beneath the skin to allow for closer evaluation.
Blood testing: A blood sample may be analyzed to measure how your immune system reacts to known allergens, particularly if prior skin testing or medical history makes skin testing unsuitable.
What You Should Expect During Your Visit
Your provider will begin by discussing your symptoms, health background, and potential reactions to help identify likely triggers. Testing is performed in-office, and most patients of all ages handle allergy testing comfortably. Once the process is finished, your ENT specialist will review the findings and begin developing an individualized treatment plan based on your results.
Treatment After Allergy Testing
After identifying your allergens, treatment may include:
- Avoidance strategies to reduce exposure
- Prescription or over-the-counter medications to control symptoms
- Immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops) to desensitize your immune system over time
These treatments are designed to lessen your body’s allergic response, helping you breathe more comfortably and enjoy your day-to-day activities.
Schedule Your Allergy Testing Today
If you experience ongoing sinus problems, sneezing, or nasal congestion, accurate allergy testing can reveal what’s causing your symptoms and guide the right care. Contact North Valley Ear, Nose and Throat Associates, P.C. in Phoenix or Glendale, AZ, at (602) 688-6500 to schedule your appointment today.