The Things You Do and Don’t Want to Do Before an Allergy Test
You’ve had a persistent runny nose or draining in your throat, you’ve been coughing a lot, or you have itchy skin or a rash, but otherwise, you feel fine. You may suffer from allergies. You’ve gone to you doctor, who has ordered allergy testing. What is the best way to properly prepare, so that you get the most accurate results from your allergy tests? What should (or shouldn’t) you do before you go in for the allergy testing?
The Things to Avoid before an Allergy Test
You want to avoid doing anything that will compromise or skew the results of your test. That includes:
- Taking any over-the-counter or prescription allergy medication for a period of seven days before your testing
- Taking any prescription or over-the-counter antacids, such as Pepcid® or Zantac® within 24 hours of your test
- Taking any tricyclic anti-depressant within 24 hours of your test
- Taking any type of beta-blocker within 24 hours of your test. That includes drugs for high blood pressure, migraines, heart issues or glaucoma
- Using any antihistamine nasal sprays within seven days of your testing
- Using any cologne or aftershave, or any hair spray or body lotion within 24 hours of your testing
- Any strenuous physical activity immediately prior to your testing, as it can increase the risk of an allergic reaction during the testing
You can, however, engage in the following activities prior to your allergy testing:
- There are no limits whatsoever on what you may eat or drink before your testing, or when you must do it, as fasting is not a requirement
- You can bring food or beverages with you when you come for your allergy testing
- You may continue a steroid nasal spray
Contact Core Medical Center Today
At Core Medical Center, with offices in Blue Springs, Missouri, we offer a number of effective treatments for chronic allergies, including allergy immunotherapy. Contact us online or call our offices at (816) 336-9970 to schedule an appointment.
