Phoenix Food Allergy Testing
Food allergies are often difficult to diagnose with blood testing or skin testing alone. In many instances, skin or blood testing may result in the “over-diagnosis” of food allergies. Some kids may outgrow their food allergies before their blood or skin tests become truly negative. Because skin tests and blood tests are imperfect the providers at San Tan Allergy & Asthma offer food challenge testing as an additional measure to definitively determine whether someone may be allergic to a food or not (or even if a food allergy may have been outgrown).
What Is A Food Allergy?
Food should nourish your body and give you energy. However, when your immune system mistakenly identifies food proteins as threats, the food you eat can make you sick instead. Your immune system attacks those proteins and releases histamines and other chemicals that can produce a variety of symptoms, some of which can be simply uncomfortable and some of which can be life-threatening. A food allergy is not the same as a food intolerance, which may make you uncomfortable but do not trigger the immune system and will not result in anaphylaxis.
What Causes A Food Allergy?
Food allergies are caused by the immune system mistakenly identifying certain proteins found in food as harmful. Genetics are often to blame for the immune system behaving this way. If you have a family history of food allergies, you have a higher risk of suffering from food allergies yourself. Children are also at higher risk for food allergies since their immune systems are not yet fully developed. Those who are allergic to pollen can sometimes experience reaction to fruits and vegetables that contain pollen. In some cases, you can also experience an allergic reaction after eating shortly after intense exercise.
What Are Common Symptoms of A Food Allergy?
Symptoms of a food allergy vary by person and the amount of food protein consumed. Some people may have mild symptoms a long time after eating the food, and others may have an intense reaction immediately upon consumption. Common symptoms include itching or tingling in the mouth, swelling of the lips or tongue, swelling of the face, hives, itching, wheezing, nasal congestion, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and fainting. In extreme cases, anaphylaxis may occur, which results in constriction of the airways, a severe drop in blood pressure, and an increased pulse. Anaphylaxis is life-threatening, and immediate medical attention is required.
Visit us at any of
our locations
Gilbert Location
4915 E. Baseline Road, Suite 112
Gilbert, AZ 85234-2966
Monday-Thursday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Friday: 8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Payson Location
Allergy Injection Hours
Monday
8am – 11:30am & 1pm – 4:30pm
Tuesday
8:00am – 11:30am & 1pm – 5:30pm
Wednesday
8am – 11:30am & 1pm – 4:30pm
Thursday
8am – 11:30am & 1pm – 5:30pm
Friday
8am – 2:30pm
Closed: Saturday & Sunday
Patient Testimonials
Staff is professional and always very friendly!
“ After allergy testing, Dr. Shimamoto explained the process and options of allergy injections and answered all my questions. I follow up with Heidi, who is also great! As of now, I’m still doing weekly injections and it’s been easy to get desired appointment day and times. I am happy that I chose San Tan Allergy!”
“Thank you for being Professional and Caring.”
Lisa Blaylock ★★★★★
“ Watch out for telemedicine appointments. Make sure you have pre-screened for them. Worked with Jackie over the phone. She is fantastic–super patient and professional. Had exam and skin tests ordered by Dr. Shimamoto. He’s happy and efficient. Great practice, just need to be patient with all the delays and possible miscommunications due to all the pandemic-imposed restrictions.”
E. M. ★★★★★
“ Everything was so nice. The reception in the front desk of the best. I didn’t have a appointment. And they look and got me one next day. Two girl in the other office were also so nice. My son goes there. I’m from El paso and I was very impressed. Thanks again.”
Rita Romo ★★★★★
Allergy Testing in Children and Infants
Children are at higher risk of suffering from food allergies than the general population. Infants and children are at greater risk of having a severe reaction to food allergies, including anaphylaxis. It is essential that infants and children are tested for food allergies if there is a history in the family or if any symptoms are suspected.
At San Tan Allergy and Asthma, our providers are compassionate and patient-focused. We understand that medical visits can produce anxiety for children, and we are sensitive to their fears. Our skin testing for food allergies is gentle and efficient. The test does not break the skin and does not cause discomfort. After a small amount of the food protein is placed on the skin using a plastic applicator, children are able to play for 15 to 20 minutes and then evaluate if a reaction occurs. This all happens under the safe supervision of our caring providers, and children remain entertained while playing with their parents. You get a fast answer about food allergies that can help you keep your children safe.
Diagnosis & Treatment of Food Allergies
To diagnose food allergies, we first talk with our patients about the symptoms they are experiencing and when these symptoms occur. We’ll ask about your medical history to see if any other conditions may be causing your symptoms, and we’ll ask if you have a family history of any food allergies. Our preferred method of food allergy testing is the “scratch” test, which involves a small scratch on the skin followed by exposure to a drop of the food protein. This test is highly accurate, efficient, and non-invasive. We can test for dozens of potential allergens, so the evaluation and medical history is used to narrow down the possible suspects.
Once we know your specific food allergy triggers, our providers will collaborate to develop an individuated treatment plan for you. It is important that you discontinue certain medications before testing to ensure an accurate result. Our team will give you comprehensive information about preparing for the test and then following up for treatment.
You do not have to continue suffering from allergy symptoms, and you do not have to wait until your child has a severe allergic reaction to find out that a food allergy is present. You can get the relief you need and keep your family safe by visiting the expert providers at San Tan Allergy and Asthma. Call our office today to learn more or to make an appointment for food allergy testing.
The Gilbert allergy and asthma doctors at San Tan Allergy & Asthma offer a variety of medical treatments and services for patients throughout the valley including allergy testing near Chandler, Phoenix eczema treatment, food allergy testing near Mesa, as well as treatment for patients in Phoenix, Tempe, Queen Creek, and more. Contact the allergy and asthma doctors at San Tan Allergy & Asthma to schedule an appointment today!
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