Allergy Testing and Treatment in Baytown & Houston

Skin prick tests require 30–45 minutes total: 10 minutes for application, 15–20 minutes waiting for reactions, and 10–15 minutes reviewing results with your physician. Blood draws take 5 minutes; results return in 2–5 business days.

Skin pricks feel like light scratches. The lancet barely penetrates the skin surface. Positive reactions cause small itchy bumps that fade within 30–60 minutes. Most children tolerate testing without difficulty.

Stop antihistamines (Zyrtec, Claritin, Benadryl, Allegra) 5–7 days before skin testing. Antihistamine nasal sprays and some antidepressants also affect results. Blood testing works regardless of medication use. We provide a complete medication list when you schedule.

Most plans cover allergy testing when symptoms indicate medical necessity. We verify your benefits before your appointment and explain any copay or deductible amounts. Skin testing typically costs less than comprehensive blood panels.

You leave with a diagnosis, a treatment plan, and prescriptions if needed. We schedule follow-up visits to assess medication effectiveness. Patients starting immunotherapy return weekly for injections during the build-up phase, then monthly for maintenance.

Yes. We test children as young as 6 months for food allergies and toddlers for environmental allergies. Skin testing is safe for children and provides faster results than blood draws.