Allergies
Testing that tells you what's actually causing it, and a long-term option beyond antihistamines.
Most people with ongoing allergy symptoms have already tried an over-the-counter antihistamine or a nasal spray. When that's not enough, or you're tired of managing it every season, two real decisions come next: how you get tested, and — if it makes sense for you — how you treat the underlying allergy itself, not just the symptoms.
What's bothering you
Tell us what you're dealing with
My symptoms flare in spring or fall
Classic seasonal allergic rhinitis — often tree, grass, or ragweed pollen.
Year-roundI'm congested and sneezing no matter the season
Often dust mites, pet dander, or mold — testing helps pin down which.
TestingI want to know exactly what I'm allergic to
Skin prick and blood testing both answer this — which one fits you is a short conversation.
Long-termI'm tired of managing this with medication every year
Immunotherapy — drops or shots — treats the underlying allergy rather than just the symptoms.
How we find out what you're allergic to
Two ways to test, and how we choose
Both methods identify the same thing — specific allergens your immune system reacts to — but they work differently, and one often fits your situation better than the other.
Skin prick testing
A tiny amount of allergen extract is introduced just under the skin's surface on the forearm or back. Reactions — a small raised bump, like a mosquito bite — appear within about 15–20 minutes. It's the most common first-line method for the most frequently seen allergens.
Blood (specific IgE) testing
A blood draw measures antibody levels to specific allergens in a lab. No skin reactions to read, and no need to pause certain medications beforehand — useful when a skin condition, medication, or needle sensitivity makes skin testing impractical.
Choosing between them
Your symptoms, skin condition, medication list, and preference all factor in. Sometimes both are used together. That decision happens during your visit — not before it — based on what fits you.
Treating the cause, not just the symptoms
Immunotherapy: drops or shots
Antihistamines and nasal sprays manage symptoms while you're taking them. Immunotherapy is different — it gradually trains your immune system to react less to a specific allergen over time, with the goal of lasting improvement even after treatment ends. There are two forms.
Allergy Drops (Sublingual)
A liquid or tablet containing a small, controlled amount of allergen extract, placed under the tongue — typically at home, usually daily. After your first dose is given and observed in the office, most dosing happens on your own schedule, which many patients (and parents, for children) prefer over a needle. A full course commonly runs several years for the benefit to hold after stopping.
Allergy Shots (Subcutaneous)
Injections given in the office on a schedule — more frequent at first (the build-up phase) and then spaced out to a monthly maintenance schedule once you reach an effective dose. Each shot is followed by a short observation period in the office as a safety precaution. Shots have the longest track record of the two and can cover the widest range of allergens in one treatment plan. Like drops, a full course commonly runs several years.
Neither option works overnight, and neither is the right fit for every allergy or every patient. Which one makes sense — or whether immunotherapy is the right step at all — is something Dr. Fewins will go through with you directly, based on your test results and your day-to-day life.