allergy testing a child

[catntl3]

hi is there away to test children for allergys and if so how would/could i do it for my daughter?

[Dr Sian Ludman]

Hi Catntl

you would need to be reviewed by a GP and referred to an allergy clinic where they can do skin prick testing or blood tests based on a focussed history.

BW

[Dr Faheem Latheef]

Dear Catntl,
Thanks for your enquiry. There are different types of allergy testing depending on the types of symptoms your child is experiencing. If you are concerned about immediate reactions happening with for example foods then blood tests and skin prick testing may be indicated. However if for instance your child is getting worsening eczema thats possibly made worse by contact with personal care products for example then an other form of testing called patch testing may be indicated where we put patches of allergens on the childs back to see if they produce a skin reaction. As Dr Ludman has advised, seeing a GP and going through the symptoms should help you in getting referred for the most appropriate form of allergy testing. Hope that helps.