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Ohio Head & Neck Surgeons provide answers to the most frequently asked questions and best care practices for ear, nose, and throat (ENT) diseases and disorders, allergy, hearing loss, and cosmetic treatments.

Allergy Scratch Testing

Allergy scratch tests are used to determine food, contact, and nasal allergies that you may have to a variety of natural substances and foods. Skin or blood tests can be done to determine which allergens you are sensitive to and aid your doctor in developing a treatment plan.

Skin testing is done in our office, and depending on how many allergens you’re being testing for, may take one or more office visits. Some medications such as antihistamines may affect the test, so it is important to discuss all of your medications with the physician prior to testing.

There are two methods of scratch testing. One way is to inject a tiny amount of allergen under the surface of your skin. The other is to place a drop of allergen on the skin and make a small prick. Our office uses the second method. It takes about 15 minutes for the skin to react. By looking at the reaction the doctor can determine whether you are allergic to a particular substance.

Scratch Test Instructions

The following medications are to be avoided at least two days prior to testing:

  • All Antihistamines
  • Cough Syrups
  • Sleeping Medications
  • Pepcid/Zantac
  • Astelin Nasal Spray
  • Prednisone
  • Medrol
  • Phenergan
  • Antivert
  • Tylenol PM
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