Dog allergies are a common issue, affecting millions of people worldwide. Identifying whether you’re truly allergic to dogs is the first step to managing the condition. Allergy testing helps pinpoint the specific allergens triggering your reaction, allowing for a more targeted approach to symptom relief.
Types of Dog Allergy Tests
Several methods exist to test for dog allergies, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
Skin Prick Test (SPT)
The skin prick test is the most common and often the first line of testing. A tiny amount of dog allergen extract is placed on your skin, typically on the forearm or back. The skin is then pricked with a small, sterile device, allowing the allergen to enter. If you’re allergic, a small, raised, itchy bump (wheal) surrounded by redness (flare) will develop within 15-20 minutes. The size of the wheal correlates to the severity of the allergy. SPTs are relatively quick, inexpensive, and provide results within minutes.
Intradermal Skin Test
Similar to the skin prick test, an intradermal skin test involves injecting a small amount of allergen extract directly under the skin. This test is more sensitive than the SPT and can detect allergies that might be missed by the skin prick test. However, it’s also more likely to cause false positive results and is typically used when the SPT is inconclusive or when a higher level of sensitivity is required. Intradermal tests also take about 15-20 minutes to show results.
Blood Test (Specific IgE Antibody Test)
A blood test, also known as a radioallergosorbent test (RAST) or ImmunoCAP test, measures the amount of specific IgE antibodies in your blood that are produced in response to dog allergens. A blood sample is drawn and sent to a laboratory for analysis. Results usually take a few days to a week. Blood tests are often preferred for individuals who can’t undergo skin testing, such as those with severe eczema, those taking certain medications (like antihistamines or beta-blockers), or those with a history of severe allergic reactions. While less sensitive than skin tests, blood tests are helpful and do not pose a risk of an allergic reaction during the test itself.
Preparation and What to Expect
Before undergoing allergy testing, your doctor will review your medical history and current medications. Certain medications, particularly antihistamines, can interfere with test results and may need to be stopped several days before the appointment.
During the skin test, you might experience mild itching at the test site. An allergy specialist will monitor you for any adverse reactions. In rare cases, a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) can occur, but medical professionals are prepared to treat it immediately.
Blood tests involve a simple blood draw, similar to routine blood work. You may experience slight discomfort or bruising at the injection site.
Interpreting Results and Next Steps
Your doctor will interpret the test results in conjunction with your medical history and symptoms. A positive test indicates that you are sensitized to dog allergens, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you will experience allergic symptoms. The severity of your allergy is usually correlated to the size of the reaction on a skin test or the level of IgE antibodies in your blood.
Based on the test results, your doctor can recommend appropriate treatment strategies, which may include allergen avoidance (reducing exposure to dogs), medications (antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers), and allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots) to desensitize you to dog allergens. Regularly cleaning your home and using air purifiers with HEPA filters can also help minimize allergen exposure.
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