When an allergy test makes sense
- Hay fever: sneezing attacks, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes in certain months
- Year-round allergic rhinitis, for example to house dust mites or animal dander
- Permanently blocked nose, mouth breathing, snoring without infection
- Recurring sinusitis, or glue ear in a child
- Suspected link between symptoms and season, home or pet
- Before a treatment decision, for example before specific immunotherapy
Allergy testing for children and adults
Allergy testing in this practice is explicitly available for children. That matters, because an unrecognised allergy in a child affects nasal breathing, sleep, ventilation of the middle ear and therefore hearing.
For children the test is prepared calmly and explained in age-appropriate terms, with the parents present throughout. Whether the skin test is suitable in an individual case depends on age, skin condition and current medication, and is discussed beforehand.
How the examination works
It starts with a conversation: when the symptoms occur, where, in which months, how severe they are and which medication is being taken. An ENT examination of nose, throat and ears follows, usually including endoscopic assessment of the nasal mucosa.
For the prick test, drops containing standardised allergens are placed on the skin of the forearm and the skin is lightly pricked. The reaction is read after about 15 to 20 minutes. The test is short and usually well tolerated. Antihistamines must be paused a few days in advance — exactly how long is discussed when the appointment is made.
The skin test is not possible in every situation: with acute skin disease on the forearm, during an acute infection, in pregnancy or while taking certain medicines (for example beta blockers) it is postponed or replaced by a blood test. Testing is carried out under medical supervision, with the means to treat a reaction immediately.
If the skin test is not sufficient or not feasible, a blood test for specific IgE antibodies can be added or a referral arranged.
What is discussed after the test
A test result on its own is not a diagnosis. What matters is whether the skin reaction matches the reported symptoms. That interpretation is done together immediately after the test.
Depending on the result, allergen avoidance, nasal irrigation, local treatment of the nasal mucosa, antihistamines or referral for specific immunotherapy (desensitisation) are discussed. If anatomical causes such as a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates are also present, these are assessed separately. No particular treatment outcome can be promised.
Costs and insurance
Private practice (Wahlarzt). Austrian public insurance refunds part of the fee on request; we provide the invoice you need.