If your child experiences sneezing, itchy skin, stomach discomfort, or other allergy symptoms, it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. Allergies in children are more common than many parents realize, and while they can sometimes be mild, other times allergic reactions can be life threatening.
If your child is showing signs of allergies, our experienced team at Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates in Houston, Texas, is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward better understanding your child’s allergy symptoms.
Allergy testing is used to identify what substances (known as allergens) trigger an allergic response in your child. These tests are especially helpful when your child has chronic allergy symptoms, such as a persistent runny nose, rash, upset stomach, or reactions after eating a specific food.
Common allergens in children include food allergies (such as milk, eggs, peanuts, or wheat), environmental allergens (like pollen or pet dander), and contact allergens (such as latex or certain soaps). Testing can provide a clear diagnosis and help guide next steps—whether that’s avoiding a certain food, starting medications, or seeking specialized care.
There are several types of diagnostic tests your child’s doctor may recommend, depending on the nature of your child’s symptoms and medical history. The most commonly used tests include:
Most allergy tests, especially skin tests, are simple and well tolerated by children. For a prick test, the procedure is quick and only involves a small scratch on the skin, usually on the forearm or back. The area is observed for 15 to 20 minutes to see if a reaction develops.
Intradermal testing is slightly more sensitive and may be recommended when the prick test doesn’t show clear results. For patch testing, the allergen-containing patches are left on the skin, and your child will return to the office for evaluation after 48 hours.
Blood tests require a standard blood draw, which some children may find uncomfortable, but it’s a helpful option when skin testing isn’t appropriate, such as in kids with certain skin conditions or who are on medications that interfere with skin tests.
For oral food challenges or elimination diets, your child will be closely monitored in the office or under medical supervision, especially since food allergies can trigger life threatening responses in some children.
If your child experiences ongoing symptoms that suggest allergic reactions, it may be time to consider testing. These symptoms may include:
Your child’s doctor will also consider your family history, environmental exposures, and response to any prior treatments when determining the need for testing.
After testing is complete, results will be reviewed alongside your child’s symptoms and medical history. A positive blood test or skin test doesn’t always mean your child will have symptoms when exposed to the allergen, which is why interpretation by a knowledgeable provider is essential.
In some cases, further testing—such as an oral food challenge or elimination diet—may be recommended to clarify uncertain results. The goal is to create a plan that helps your child avoid triggers while maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
Allergy testing also helps identify when allergies have been outgrown. Many children eventually tolerate different allergens, especially food allergies, as their immune systems mature.
Allergy testing is a powerful tool for understanding your child’s health and helping them thrive. Whether it’s identifying a specific food, an environmental trigger, or a skin allergen, testing gives your family the information needed to take action and reduce the risk of future allergic reactions.
At Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates, we have experience caring for children with allergies and work closely with allergy specialists as needed to ensure your child receives the most accurate diagnosis and effective treatment options.
If your child has unexplained allergy symptoms or a history of reactions, schedule an appointment at one of our offices in Houston today. We’re here to help your child feel their best, every season of the year.
Medically reviewed by Debra Bootin, MD
