Seasonal allergies and environmental sensitivities affect many people throughout the Lower Mainland. Symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, sinus pressure, and fatigue are often treated with over the counter antihistamines, but many people are left wondering what is actually causing their symptoms.
At Full Circle Integrative Health, we offer skin scratch testing to help identify common environmental allergens that may be contributing to allergy symptoms.
What Is Skin Scratch Testing?
Skin scratch testing is a simple and well-established method used to evaluate allergic responses to common environmental triggers.
During the test, small amounts of different allergens are gently introduced to the surface of the skin using a very light skin prick. The process is quick and generally well tolerated.
The test allows us to evaluate reactions to a variety of allergens, including:
- Pollens
- Tree Allergens
- Grass Allergens
- Dust and dust mites
- Animal dander
- Other common environmental allergens
If the immune system recognizes one of these substances as a threat, a small localized skin reaction can occur, helping us identify potential triggers.
The entire process typically takes about 30 minutes, and results are available during the same visit.
Why Identifying Your Allergies Matters
Many people treat allergy symptoms without ever knowing what their immune system is reacting to.
Identifying specific triggers allows patients to:
Better understand what may be contributing to their symptoms
Reduce exposure to specific allergens when possible
Develop a targeted treatment strategy
Understanding the root cause of allergy symptoms can often make management much more effective.
Beyond Antihistamines: Supporting the Immune System
Many people rely on daily antihistamines to manage their symptoms. While these medications can provide short term relief, they do not address the underlying immune response that is causing the allergy.
Some patients prefer to explore approaches that focus on modulating the immune system’s response to allergens rather than simply suppressing symptoms.
One option we often discuss with patients is sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT).
What Is Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)?
Sublingual immunotherapy is a treatment approach that involves placing small amounts of allergen extracts under the tongue on a regular basis.
Over time, this controlled exposure may help retrain the immune system so that it becomes less reactive to certain allergens.
SLIT is considered a non-invasive and generally well-tolerated option for patients who are good candidates.
For many individuals, this approach can help reduce the severity of allergy symptoms and decrease reliance on daily medications.
Who Might Benefit from Allergy Testing?
Skin scratch testing may be helpful for individuals who experience:
Seasonal allergy symptoms
Persistent nasal congestion
Chronic sinus symptoms
Itchy or watery eyes
Allergy symptoms triggered by animals or environmental exposures
Testing can help guide personalized treatment decisions.
Allergy Testing at Full Circle Integrative Health
At Full Circle Integrative Health in Burnaby, we offer skin scratch testing as part of a comprehensive approach to understanding and managing environmental allergies.
By identifying specific allergens and discussing appropriate treatment options, we aim to help patients develop a personalized plan to better manage their symptoms and support long-term immune health.
If you are curious about allergy testing or wondering whether environmental allergens may be contributing to your symptoms, our team would be happy to discuss whether testing may be appropriate for you.
SLIT is considered a non-invasive and generally well-tolerated option for patients who are good candidates.
For many individuals, this approach can help reduce the severity of allergy symptoms and decrease reliance on daily medications.
📍 Full Circle Integrative Health – Burnaby
📞 604-373-7975
🔗 Book online at Jane App
Written by Dr. Erin Rurak: ND, certified clinician through the Menopause Society, Fellow of the American Board of Naturopathic Oncology & founder of Full Circle Integrative Health