Allergy Testing

If it’s just allergy testing that you want then you should consider an appointment with the nurse practitioner. There’s no need to worry if you don’t have a referral from your doctor.

At your consultation she will discuss your symptoms and the reasons that you are considering testing. We wont test you unless we agree that your symptoms sound like an allergy.

Allergy testing includes a full review of your symptoms and a medication check. We are able to provide resources to help you live with your allergies.

There are many types of allergy tests available these days. Some are not recognised by doctors and scientists. We use skin prick testing to diagnose your allergies. You can be assured that skin prick tests are accepted and used by all allergy specialists in the UK.

We have a complete range of common allergens available for adults and children from 3 months.

Skin prick tests are a quick way of establishing your allergies. No blood tests are required. The nurse will perform the tests on the inside of the forearm. Drops of allergen solutions will be placed onto your skin and each one pricked with a small lancet. Most people find that they do not hurt. Children have said it’s like being pressed gently with a sharp pencil. An itchy lump appears at the site of any positive tests. The results are ready within fifteen minutes and are measured by the nurse.

You will be sent a written report along with information about how to avoid allergens and reduce your symptoms.

Antihistamines will affect the results
Please stop all medicines that contain antihistamine 4 days before your appointment. These include:

Some cough and cold remedies also contain antihistamines. Please ask us if you’re not sure, or check with your pharmacist.