Allergy Testing Specialist
Sirven & Associates Allergy and Asthma Center
Adult & Pediatric Allergy and Immunology & Allergists located in Miami, FL
If sneezing, watery eyes, or breathing problems diminish your or your child’s quality of life, board-certified adult and pediatric allergy and immunology physician Viviana Sirven, MD, and her experienced team is here for you. At Sirven & Associates Allergy and Asthma Center in Miami, Florida, they offer allergy testing to find out what you’re allergic to and develop an effective treatment plan. Call the office for an appointment today or use the online booking feature.
Allergy Testing
What is allergy testing?
Adult and pediatric allergy testing involves skin tests that identify which allergens the body is sensitive to. Common allergens include:
- Dust and dust mites
- Animal dander
- Insect stings
- Some foods
- Certain fabrics
- Latex
- Mold and mildew
- Grass, tree, or weed pollens
Once the experts at Sirven & Associates Allergy and Asthma Center know what you or your child is allergic to, they develop a personalized treatment plan that offers symptom relief.
What are the symptoms of allergies?
If you have allergies and are exposed to certain allergens, you may experience unpleasant symptoms. Examples include sneezing, itchy or running nose, watery or swollen eyes, facial or lip swelling, hives, and wheezing. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition that might cause you to go into shock.
What happens during allergy testing?
If you or your child notices symptoms associated with allergies, specialists at Sirven & Associates Allergy and Asthma Center review your medical history and symptoms. They complete a physical exam and use blood tests or skin testing to determine which allergens you’re sensitive to.
During skin tests, your provider places tiny drops of suspected allergens on the skin on the inside of your arms. They then make tiny pricks with a plastic applicator to gently break the top skin layer. After about 10 minutes, Dr. Sirven checks your skin for itchy, red welts that indicate an allergic reaction.
What are available allergy treatment options?
If allergy testing reveals you or your child has allergies, the Sirven & Associates Allergy and Asthma Center team might recommend:
Allergen avoidance
In some cases, avoiding allergen exposure is the best way to reduce unpleasant symptoms. For example, you or your child might avoid latex, certain foods, mold, or being around pets. Clean your home regularly and use an air conditioner to reduce dust as much as possible.
Medications
Oral medications, nasal sprays, or eye drops help reduce allergy symptoms for you or your child. Dr. Sirven lets you know which medicines are right for you.
Allergy shots
If you receive allergy shots, or immunotherapy, your provider injects a tiny amount of allergens into your arm over time to trigger antibody production and block unpleasant symptoms.
Emergency epinephrine
Emergency epinephrine is a shot you or your child carries at all times in the case of a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction.
Dr. Sirven and her team tailor allergy treatments to your or your child’s unique needs, to drastically improve your quality of life. Schedule an allergy testing appointment at Sirven & Associates Allergy and Asthma Center by phone or online today.