Allergy Testing

If you’re constantly sneezing, battling congestion, runny nose, dealing with itchy skin, or struggling to catch your breath, allergies may be to blame. But to treat them effectively, you first need to know exactly what’s triggering your symptoms. That’s where allergy testing comes in.

At Grand Rapids Ear, Nose & Throat, our specialists offer in-office allergy testing to help identify your specific sensitivities — from pollen and pet dander to foods, medications, and more. Once we understand your results, we’ll walk you through your options and help build a plan for lasting relief.

If allergies are interfering with your comfort or daily life, schedule an evaluation today.

You may benefit from allergy testing if you:

• Have ongoing nasal congestion, sneezing, or sinus pressure
• Experience frequent rashes, hives, or skin irritation
• Struggle with asthma symptoms that seem to flare with certain exposures
• Have suspected food or drug allergies
• Take allergy medications but still have symptoms
• Want to explore long-term treatment options like allergen immunotherapy

Allergy testing is safe, quick, and well-tolerated by both children and adults. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, we may recommend:

• Skin prick testing — a small drop of allergen is placed on the skin, then gently scratched to observe any reaction
• Intradermal testing — a slightly deeper skin test used for more detailed sensitivity testing
• Blood testing (IgE testing) — typically used when skin testing isn’t possible or more data is needed

You’ll remain under observation during testing, and we’ll review your results with you in real time.

We test for a wide range of allergic triggers, including:

• Environmental allergens — such as pollen, mold, pet dander, and dust mites
• Food allergens — such as peanuts, shellfish, dairy, wheat, and eggs
• Drug allergies — including antibiotics, pain relievers, and anesthesia
• Insect venom — such as bees, wasps, and fire ants
• Other contact or occupational allergens — like latex or chemical sensitivities

Not all testing is necessary for every patient — we’ll tailor the approach based on your symptoms and exposure risks.

In most cases, skin test results are available during your appointment. Blood test results may take a few days. Based on your results, we may recommend:

• Avoidance strategies to reduce contact with your triggers
• Daily medications like antihistamines or nasal sprays
• Allergy immunotherapy (shots or drops) to gradually reduce sensitivity over time
• Biologic therapies for asthma or severe allergies, including Dupixent, Nucala, Fasenra, Tezspire, or Xolair
• Emergency precautions, including epinephrine and medical alerts, if needed

We’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and symptoms.