Allergy Testing
One in five Americans, approximately 60 million people, suffer from allergies, this number has more than doubled since 1995, and results in 13.4 million visits to the doctor a year.
We utilize skin tests since they are the gold standard in allergy testing and provide the fastest results, at less cost than blood testing and is generally fully covered by most major insurance plans.
At Innovative Health and Wellness we test for 48 of the most common allergens that are prevalent in the southeast. This includes dander and pelt of cat, dog epithelia, horse dander, cockroach, dust mites, molds, and pollens from weeds, grasses, and trees.
Why Innovative Health and Wellness for Allergy Testing?
We are your best choice for allergy testing because we are familiar with your overall health goals. Innovative Health and Wellness is involved in the long term care of all of our patients – physically, emotionally, and psychologically. Data has shown patients with an ongoing relationship with their medical providers have better overall outcomes.
How is Allergy Treatment Administered?
Based on consultation between our staff and the patient and complying with insurance requirements, customized immunosuppressant therapy specific to each patient will be compounded for subcutaneous (injection) administration.
Immunotherapy is not appropriate for patients with unstable coronary artery disease, autoimmune disease, unstable asthma, patients using beta-blockers, severe psychological disorders, history of anaphylaxis to environmental allergens and pregnant women.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the skin test hurt?
No, the skin test is a painless way to test a patient’s sensitivity to many different environmental allergens ranging from dust mites to pollen to various trees and grasses. During the test, plastic combs are dipped in antigens and gently pressed against a patient’s back.
Does my insurance cover the cost of the test?
Yes, almost all private insurance providers (Blue Cross, Aetna, United, Cigna,Humana etc.) allow for coverage of both the test and the medication to treat the results of the tests.
How quickly will I know what I’m allergic to?
Actually, you will know what you’re allergic to the same day of your test. Usually, within 15 minutes of the test being administered.
Is there any risk of an allergic reaction?
Anaphylaxis (allergic reaction) is very rare and generally only originates from food and insect venom allergies. As there is no treatment for these allergies right now, we don’t test for them; so patients simply aren’t exposed to those allergens. We only test for environmental allergens.
How long do I have to take this medication?
It really depends on a patient’s individual allergies, including the number of allergies a patient has and the severity of each. Many patients start to physically feel better and experience some symptomatic relief within 1-3 months of starting their therapy. To achieve complete alleviation of patients’ allergies usually takes 2-3 years, but in rare cases it can require up to 5 years of therapy if a patient has severe allergies. However, immunotherapy can provide a long-term solution for patients with allergies, eliminate the need for costly prescription and over-the-counter medications, and vastly improve patients’ quality of life.
If you suffer from constant or seasonal allergies, your next step is a consultation at Innovative Health and Wellness to see if allergy testing is the appropriate next step. Contact us by phone at our Woodstock location, (770) 926-4646, our Buckhead location, (404) 816-0222, or via the Contact Us section here on our website.We are available to answer your calls 24/7 everyday of the week so don’t delay in giving us a call!