Hello! I am Dr. Balachandra. Many parents come to me saying,

“Doctor, my child keeps sneezing, coughing, or wheezing again and again. Why does it keep coming back?”

The answer is simple: if we don’t identify the trigger, the allergy keeps returning.

This is where allergy testing becomes very important. Allergy tests help us identify exactly what your child’s immune system is reacting to, so we can treat the root cause—not just the symptoms.

Step 1: Understanding Allergic Rhinitis & Asthma

Allergic Rhinitis:

This is an allergy affecting the nose. Common symptoms include:

• Repeated sneezing
• Blocked or runny nose
• Itchy nose or eyes
• Morning sneezing attacks

Allergic Asthma:

Here, the airways become sensitive and inflamed, leading to:

• Wheezing
• Cough
• Chest tightness
• Breathing difficulty

👉 Many children have both allergic rhinitis and asthma together.

Step 2: Why Allergy Testing Helps

An allergy test helps identify triggers such as:

• Dust mites
• Pollen
• Pet fur
• Mold
• Cockroach allergens

Once we know the trigger:

• We can reduce exposure
• Symptoms improve faster
• Asthma attacks can reduce significantly

👉 Knowing the trigger changes the entire treatment plan.

Step 3: Types of Allergy Tests

Skin Prick Test (SPT):

This is the most commonly used allergy test.

• Tiny drops of allergens are placed on the skin
• The skin is gently pricked
• Results appear within 15–20 minutes

👉 If the child is allergic, a small itchy bump appears.

This test is:

• Safe
• Quick
• Minimally painful

 Blood Allergy Test (IgE Test)

Sometimes a blood test is preferred:

• If the child has severe eczema
• If medicines interfere with skin testing
• If skin testing cannot be performed

👉 This measures allergy antibodies in the blood.

Step 4: Who Should Get Tested?

Consider allergy testing if your child has:

• Persistent sneezing
• Recurrent blocked nose
• Wheezing or asthma
• Symptoms worsening indoors or seasonally

👉 Allergy testing can be done safely at almost any age.

Step 5: What Happens After the Test?

Once the allergens are identified, treatment may include:

• Allergen avoidance
• Lifestyle changes
• Nasal sprays or anti-allergy medicines
• Allergy immunotherapy in selected cases

👉 Early diagnosis prevents long-term breathing problems.

When Should You See a Specialist?

Visit a doctor if symptoms:

• Keep recurring
• Affect sleep or school performance
• Trigger wheezing or breathing issues

📍 Consult experienced pediatric specialists at Chirayu Multispeciality Clinic for expert allergy evaluation and personalized care.

Final Thoughts:

Allergy tests help us move from “temporary relief” to “long-term control.” Identifying the trigger early can improve breathing, sleep, school performance, and overall quality of life.

📍 For expert allergy care, visit Chirayu Multispeciality Clinic, Kasturi Nagar, Bangalore, and help your child breathe easier every day.