“I have struggled with allergies and sinus problems since my first surgery in 2012. I found Dr. Hu last year while looking for a new doctor who accepted my insurance. She is awesome!!! She always takes her time, I never feel rushed, and she’s always extremely gentle. I would recommend her to anyone struggling with sinus issues!”
S.G.
“I recently visited Dr. Yoon for an issue I've been dealing with for a couple of months now and I must say I am very happy with the treatment I am currently receiving. I felt very comfortable immediately with Kimberly understanding my fears and anxiety while I was expressing my concerns. Dr. Yoon is honest, knowledgeable, patient and very thorough. I had many questions and every question was answered in detail. I never felt rushed like I do at many other doctor offices. Dr. Yoon truly cares and is wonderful at explaining different treatment plans and options. I walked out of her office feeling grateful I found her. I highly recommend family, friends and anyone in need of a fantastic ENT to visit Dr. Yoon.”
T. Garza
Allergy Testing
Our allergy test is preselected for allergens present in the Houston region.
If your allergy symptoms are severe or uncontrolled by medications, your ENT and allergy specialist might suggest allergy testing. This testing identifies your specific triggers, helping manage your symptoms better through avoidance. It is the most effective method alongside personal history and observation to pinpoint allergic triggers.
We are committed to helping you manage your condition effectively so you can lead a fulfilling life.
Selecting the appropriate test is crucial as it enhances the accuracy of the diagnosis. This task is challenging because while patients may react to various allergens, only a few may cause clinical allergies. Your ENT and allergy specialist are adept at choosing tests that precisely identify the allergens responsible for symptoms.
Starting from the initial consultation, your ENT and allergy specialist will conduct tests to identify what triggers your allergies and discuss both the results and potential treatment options with you. It’s important that allergy tests are not selected haphazardly but based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s symptoms, environmental and occupational exposures, age, and hobbies. Results are interpreted considering the patient’s comprehensive medical history.
It should be noted that allergy testing is not perfect. Results may show a positive result to an allergen, but you may not experience significant symptoms outside of testing. Testing does not include every possible substance you may be allergic to but includes the most common allergens in our region. For example, chemicals in fragrances, cleaning supplies, cigarette smoke, and pollution can not be tested in allergy tests but can cause significant symptoms in our patients.
Our professionals stay updated with scientific research to determine the most reliable testing methods. Tests target common allergens like plant pollens, molds, dust mites, animal dander, insect stings, and various foods including peanuts, eggs, wheat, shellfish, and milk. Additionally, tests are available for certain medications, such as penicillin.
Consulting with your ENT to test for and diagnose your allergies can provide the relief you're looking for. For more information, give us a call at (281) 332-4575.
We test adults and children starting at the age of 5 based on individual tolerance. Younger children or those that may not tolerate testing may qualify for allergy blood tests done at a lab or local hospital.
Testing is performed on the upper back by applying a plastic applicator coated with a small amount of allergen. Depending on levels of sensitivity indicated by redness, swelling and possible itching, a second titration study is performed to determine dosing for immunotherapy treatment. This is completed by injecting a bit of reactive allergen into the skin of the arm or forearm. Injection is performed with a very small needle and usually causes little to no pain. Occasionally some itching or burning may result based on your sensitivity to the allergen. 15 to 20 minutes after application, results are interpreted through measurements of swelling and redness. Areas of itching are treated with topical hydrocortisone. The entire process may take up to one hour depending on the number of sensitivities.
Certain allergy medicines, reflux medications, and blood pressure medications may interfere with skin test results. A list of specific medications and when to stop them prior to the test can be found in the link below. Usually, medications may have to be stopped a few days to a week prior to the test date. It is necessary to stop these medications before testing so that results are as accurate as possible. Medications may be resumed immediately after testing.
Allergy blood tests can be quite expensive. Despite this, blood tests may be offered to people who may not be good candidates for skin testing. Allergy blood tests may be offered for young children who are unable to tolerate skin testing, for individuals that may have active skin disease or who are unable to stop certain medications that would interfere with skin test results.
The most common side effect of allergy skin testing is itching, burning, redness or swelling at the testing site. Very rarely, a more serious reaction may occur such as shortness of breath or changes in blood pressure. This is why allergy testing is performed in a physician’s office well equipped to identify and treat more significant symptoms that may develop.
Get Allergy Relief
Are you experiencing nasal congestion, postnasal drip, runny nose, facial pain or pressure, or headaches?
Our ear, nose & throat (ENT) providers will work closely with you to find an effective treatment plan to provide allergy relief as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you. When you do make an appointment, you will need to complete our allergy testing and treatment instructions and allergy history paperwork.
For more information, give us a call at (281) 332-4575.
Consultation
Struggling with persistent allergy symptoms like itchy eyes, congestion, or fatigue and home remedies are not working? Schedule a consult to explore treatment options and get relief today. Call (281) 332-4575.
Allergy Testing
We test all ages, adults and children from age 5, based on tolerance. If medications don’t control your allergy symptoms well, your ENT & allergy provider might suggest testing to pinpoint your triggers and sensitivities.
Treatment
Take control of your allergies and alleviate symptoms. Based on sensitivity shown by redness, swelling, and itching, a second titration study is performed to determine dosing for immunotherapy treatment.