Skin Prick Tests for ALLERGY TESTING. Does it hurt?

[xXxshaddicxXx]

Where do they do the tests......have to get pricked tomorrow

[ImKoolWithThis]

Does the test happen on the arms or the back?

[tory111199]

I want you as my doctor. You're really nice :) Are you a full doctor, like do you give shots and check-ups and things like that, or do you just do this? If you can prick a toddlers skin and he not be affected, I'll bet you can give shots and I, (and 11 yr old girl) barley feel it. I'm terrified of needles, and I have to get shots so I can go into middle school soon. :( Any tips on how to make the shots hurt less? Thanks!

[DrRodneyFord]

@tory111199 Thanks - child specialist doctor. Only see referred children. Mostly for diagnosis and management of food allergy/ intolerance.

[DoodleBrainz]

No, it does not hurt. But only 3% of the population has allergies (hives, rash, throat closing up) versus 30% of the population having food SENSITIVITIES (the symptoms an be endless, including depression, acne, crying spells) and can NOT be found via allergy testing. Get a sensitivity test (EnteroLab or Cyrex or ALCAT or NowLEAP).

[DrRodneyFord]

@DoodleBrainz Hi, you are absolutely correct. Immediate allergy (to foods and to environmental allergens) is only a small fraction of the allergy/intolerance spectrum. Other tests are needed to sort out other reactions. Thanks for pointing this out. Cheers Rodney Ford.

[mudpuppy]

Do you actually tear the skin? I'm absolutely horrified of needles, and I'm supposed to be getting an allergy test with both plates (They said that was less invasive) and the prick test.

[DrRodneyFord]

@mudpuppy

Thanks, yes many people feel scared.

I touch the skin with a needle point as gently as I can - just to break the skin. It does not hurt, but sometimes it feels a bit prickly. This child did not get at all bothered. However, some labs are more enthusiastic with the prick. Ask them to show you exactly how they will do it. Cheers Dr Rodney Ford

[awaken69]

you're using the same needle during the whole process?

[DrRodneyFord]

@awaken69 excellent question

Yes, by wiping the needle carefully between pricks there is no cross-contamination. Very seldom, if there are big reactions, I will repeat it with a new needle. RF

[flossiehead]

Nice vid

[DrRodneyFord]

@flossiehead

Thanks. Lots of people have got the wrong idea about these skin prick allergy tests. They are quick and easy to do, should not be painful, and give valuable results. Best wishes. Rodney Ford