Services
Allergy Testing
Accurate allergy testing and treatment will help you to identify your allergen triggers, reduce uncomfortable symptoms, and manage adverse reactions. First Care Medical Clinic offers comprehensive, on-site allergy testing at any of the five North Carolina locations in Monroe, Albemarle, Gastonia, and two offices in Charlotte, as well as a clinic in Rock Hill, South Carolina. Our expert providers can determine if your persistently stuffy nose or itchy skin is caused by common environmental factors, foods, or medications and recommend a treatment plan.
Learn more about your options for allergy testing at First Care Medical Clinic. To schedule an allergy screening contact the office nearest to you by phone or by using the online booking feature.
Allergy Testing Q&A
What are Allergies?
Allergies are your immune system’s overreaction to substances in your environment. When you’re exposed to certain substances, your body reacts in its own defense, creating antibodies that cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms.
Some of the most common allergy triggers include:
- Mold
- Dust mites
- Pollen
- Insect bites/stings
- Pet dander
You can also be allergic to certain foods or medications.
What are Common Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction?
Symptoms of seasonal or chronic allergies can be similar to those you experience with a cold, and these reactions may vary in intensity from person to person. If you suffer from allergies, your triggers will most commonly cause symptoms, including:
- Coughing
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Hives or skin rashes
For some, exposure to an allergen trigger can be severe and result in anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening condition that causes a number of systemic reactions, including sudden inflammation in your airways that makes it difficult to breathe. Without treatment, anaphylaxis can be fatal.
Why Should I Get an Allergy Test?
If you’re unsure what substances are triggering your allergic reactions, comprehensive allergy testing can provide you and your doctor with information needed to create a treatment plan and reduce or eliminate uncomfortable or life-threatening symptoms. The Physicians at First Care Medical Clinic will carefully supervise allergy testing to ensure you don’t experience any complications.
How are Allergy Tests Performed?
For many patients with suspected allergies, our providers choose an in-office skin test method to test to determine which substances cause a reaction. A skin prick tests, or a scratch test begins with pricking your skin and adding a small amount of common allergens. If an itchy bump forms on the site, you test positive for an allergy to that allergen. If you test positive, First Care Medical Clinic staff can create an effective treatment plan to ease your existing symptoms and prevent new reactions.
How do you Treat Allergies?
You may be a good candidate for allergen immunotherapy treatment, a process of exposing you to confirmed allergens over time to reduce your sensitivity to the substances. The goal of immunotherapy is to make it possible for you to be around an allergen without having a reaction.
Because everyone has unique needs for treating allergies, your First Care Medical Clinic provider will customize the composition and dosage of your immunotherapy specific to your needs to achieve optimum results.
If you suspect you have allergies and need an accurate diagnosis, schedule a consultation for allergy testing at the First Care Medical Clinic directly through our website. You can also contact the clinic nearest you to speak with a team member.