Pediatric Allergy Testing at Portland Clinic: How It Can Help Your Child
What is pediatric allergy testing at Portland Clinic?
Allergy testing is a blood test that measures the levels of certain chemicals in the patient’s blood. For example, the level of allergen in the patient’s blood can indicate the likelihood that the patient will develop a reaction to that allergen in the future.
Why does Portland Clinic offer allergy testing for children?
Kids are more likely to become allergic as they get older, and this can happen at a younger age in some kids. For example, kids who start runny nose around 2 are at an increased risk for allergies. Also, people whose parents have allergies are more likely to have an autoimmune condition, such as an autoimmune disorder or allergies to certain foods.
How does pediatric allergy testing work?
Allergy testing is a quick and easy test that measures the levels of chemicals in the patient’s blood. It’s often done during an ENT doctor or allergist visit. Your doctor will take a swab of your child’s nose and throat and send it to a lab to measure the number of allergens in the patient’s blood. The test is usually done at a clinic; the results are back in 24 hours.
When should you schedule pediatric allergen testing?
Allergy testing should be scheduled as soon as your child first starts to show signs of allergies. It’s best to schedule the test at the same time every year, as it’s likely that your child will experience a seasonal change in allergies that year. It would be best if you also considered scheduling the test in early spring or late fall when pollen levels are at their highest.
What will be done during a pediatric allergen test?
A small sample of your child’s blood is taken and sent to a lab during a pediatric allergen test. There, a lab test will measure the levels of chemicals in the blood. The levels are then compared to benchmarks that indicate whether your child has an allergy to that food or chemical. Allergen levels are generally low during the first few months of life, then increase and stay high throughout childhood. Because of this, testing is often done in early spring or late fall. Once your child’s levels are measured, the allergist can decide whether to prepare a list of foods that may cause an allergic reaction in your child.
Advantages of Allergy Testing at Portland Clinic
Quick and easy: allergy testing at Portland is less involved and time-consuming than other types of testing. As a result, you’re less likely to be rushed while waiting for the results.
No risk of negative results: allergy testing is done on an as-needed basis, so there’s no risk of a negative result if your child’s symptoms are mild or he or she has outgrown the allergies.
No exams or obligations: you won’t be required to attend appointments or sit through exams.
No need to shop around: you won’t have to search through multiple clinics or doctors to find the best price or test.
Disadvantages of Allergy Testing at Portland Clinic
More expensive: allergist and lab fees typically amount to around $300 for a regular schedule of tests, which is more than the cost of a first aid kit for a child with a minor injury.
Long wait: allergists typically need at least a month to create a list of all the foods that could cause an allergic reaction, which can be a long wait.
The clinic is a one-stop shop: your child’s blood test results will be sent to the clinic where the test is scheduled, and he or she will be seen by a doctor or allergist there.
Conclusion
Allergy testing is a quick and easy way for parents to learn whether their child has allergies. In addition, the test can indicate whether your child is at risk for developing an allergic reaction in the future. There are many advantages to pediatric allergen testing at Portland Clinic, but it’s expensive, and the wait can be long. You should consider these facts before deciding whether the test is right for your child.