Allergy Testing & Treatment FAQ

The typical time frame for an allergy test with us is 30-60 minutes. After this, it should take about 15 minutes to register the results.

Adults and children over the age of two years can be tested for allergies at Amarillo Family Physicians Clinic. Patients with the following conditions can see the most benefit from allergy testing.

  • Allergic conjunctivitis, asthma, rhinitis, and bronchitis
  • Insect allergies
  • Chronic cough
  • Angioedema(swelling in the deeper layers of the skin)
  • Sinusitis
  • Atopic dermatitis
  • Urticaria (hives)

We provide allergy tests for 48 allergens that are specific to our location, including perennial and seasonal allergies. We do not provide testing for stinging-insect or food related allergies. We now offer testing for penicillin allergies.

Most insurance plans will cover both testing and treatment for allergies. Before we provide allergy testing, we will verify your insurance coverage.

We use the standard method of testing for allergies known as the Skin Prick Test, which is non-invasive and shouldn’t cause you any pain. The device will gently abrade the skin with specific allergens. After about 15 minutes, any positive results will appear as a red, raised bump on the skin that looks similar to a mosquito bite.

Yes. This therapy is 85% – 95% effective in children and can also help prevent future allergic asthma.

In order to achieve the most accurate test results, you should discontinue any antihistamines, over the counter or prescription, for at least 3 days or longer depending on the medication prior to allergy testing. You may safely resume the use of antihistamines once you begin immunotherapy.