How Do You Prepare for Allergy Testing in Austin, TX

1. Wear a sleeveless, or loose-fitting shirt. Testing is done on the upper arms (elbow to shoulder area). Numerous dilutions of various antigens will be placed under the skin surface to determine your allergies.

2. Eat something light. No restrictions on food or fluids before testing.

3. Complete the allergy questionnaire and give it to staff at the time of testing.

4. If you have a history of asthma or reactive airway disease, notify staff. This may prevent skin testing.

1. ANTIDEPRESSANTS: (Tricyclic) – discontinue 7 days before testing.

2. ANTIHISTAMINES: Discontinue 7 days before testing. 
Allegra, Claritin, Zyrtec, Xyzal, Benadryl, Dristan, Tavist, Tylenol Sinus, Etc.
Exceptions: Robitussin PE, Sudafed

3. BETA BLOCKERS: (Adrenergic) – discontinue 7 days before testing.

4. CORTISONE: “Cortisone Therapy” – oral/injection – discontinue 4-8 weeks depending on the type taken. (Aristocort, Celestone, Cortef, Decadron, Deltasone, Depo-Medrol, Hydrocortone, Kenacort, Kenalog, Medrol, Prednisone, Solu-Medrol).

5. CREAMS: With cortisone – to upper arms – discontinue 2-3 weeks before testing. (Cortaid Cream, Hydrocortisone Cream, etc.)

6. INJECTION: (allergy) – Discontinue 7 days before testing.

1. NASAL SPRAYS OR INHALERS: with/without steroid.
 *Note: bring these with you – May need them during testing!

2. OPHTHALMIC (EYE) DROPS: (with/without Beta-Blocker).

3. ROUTINE DAILY MEDICATIONS: except as listed above.

CANCELLATION OF TESTING: please give 7 days’ notice to this office

Dr. Chu and his team are dedicated to helping you get the most out of your allergy testing by providing thorough preparation guidelines and support. By following these steps and reaching out with any questions, you’ll be well-prepared for a smooth and insightful testing process. For further assistance or to schedule your allergy test, contact our Austin clinic today. We serve patients from Austin TX, Del Valle TX, Allandale TX, Manor TX, Dessau TX, and surrounding areas.