Question 1

How do I prepare for a Skin allergy tests (prick test)?

Accepted Answer

Quick and superficial skin test to identify allergies by applying small drops of allergens.

Question 2

What do I need to know before a Skin allergy tests (prick test)?

Accepted Answer

• **Definition:** A quick and superficial skin test to identify allergies by applying small drops of allergens.
• **Fasting:** No fasting necessary. You can eat your usual food and drink plain water or liquids normally before coming to your appointment.
• **Medication:** It is strictly necessary to stop taking antihistamines (allergy pills or syrups) between 3 and 7 days before the test, as they can block the reaction and hide the results. You can maintain the rest of your usual treatments, but remember that any suspension or adjustment of your medication must always be discussed beforehand with your doctor.
• **Clothing and Accessories:** We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and, preferably, short sleeves or something very easy to roll up. The test is usually performed on the inner part of the forearms (or on the back in small children), so the area must be accessible. There are no restrictions on metals, jewelry, or watches.
• **Specific Requirements:** On the day of the test, it is essential that the skin of your arms and back is completely clean. Do not apply moisturizing creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, or steroid gels to the area, as they can form a barrier on the skin or alter the test reaction.
• **Expected discomfort or pain from the test:** The procedure is completely safe and painless. You will feel quick, tiny scratches or slight pressure on your skin from a plastic device or a very small lancet that does not cause bleeding. If you are allergic to any of the substances, the main discomfort will be that the area will turn red, swell slightly (similar to a mosquito bite), and become quite itchy, but this sensation will disappear within a couple of hours.

Question 3

What do I have to do before a Skin allergy tests (prick test)?

Accepted Answer

• **Definition:** A quick and superficial skin test to identify allergies by applying small drops of allergens.
• **Fasting:** No fasting necessary. You can eat your usual food and drink plain water or liquids normally before coming to your appointment.
• **Medication:** It is strictly necessary to stop taking antihistamines (allergy pills or syrups) between 3 and 7 days before the test, as they can block the reaction and hide the results. You can maintain the rest of your usual treatments, but remember that any suspension or adjustment of your medication must always be discussed beforehand with your doctor.
• **Clothing and Accessories:** We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and, preferably, short sleeves or something very easy to roll up. The test is usually performed on the inner part of the forearms (or on the back in small children), so the area must be accessible. There are no restrictions on metals, jewelry, or watches.
• **Specific Requirements:** On the day of the test, it is essential that the skin of your arms and back is completely clean. Do not apply moisturizing creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, or steroid gels to the area, as they can form a barrier on the skin or alter the test reaction.
• **Expected discomfort or pain from the test:** The procedure is completely safe and painless. You will feel quick, tiny scratches or slight pressure on your skin from a plastic device or a very small lancet that does not cause bleeding. If you are allergic to any of the substances, the main discomfort will be that the area will turn red, swell slightly (similar to a mosquito bite), and become quite itchy, but this sensation will disappear within a couple of hours.

General instructions for Skin allergy tests (prick test)

Your privacy matters to us