Managing Your Results
What to Do After Receiving Your Allergy Test Results
Once you receive your allergy test results, it's important to understand the findings fully and take appropriate action. This guide will help you navigate the next steps in your allergy management journey.
Understanding Your Results
Schedule a follow-up appointment with your allergist to discuss your results. They can explain what the results mean and how they affect your health.
Based on your results, your allergist may recommend lifestyle changes or dietary adjustments. Creating a personalized management plan with your healthcare provider is essential.
1. Discuss the Results with Your Doctor
During your follow-up appointment, your allergist will:
- Explain what allergens you're reacting to
- Help you understand the severity of your allergies
- Discuss symptoms associated with each allergen
- Answer any questions you may have
- Provide education on prevention strategies
2. Implement Recommended Lifestyle Changes
Your allergist will recommend specific actions based on your results:
- Food allergies: Dietary modifications and safe food handling
- Seasonal allergies: Timing outdoor activities and using air filtration
- Environmental allergies: Reducing exposure to triggers in your home
- Medications: Understanding which medications to take and when
3. Monitor Symptoms and Improvement
Keep track of your progress:
- Maintain a symptom diary
- Note any changes in your condition
- Report back to your allergist about your progress
- Adjust your management plan as needed
4. Seek Support Groups or Resources
Consider additional support:
- Join allergy support groups
- Connect with others managing similar allergies
- Access educational resources and materials
- Follow up with specialty referrals if needed (e.g., registered dietitian for food allergies)
Treatment Options After Testing
Allergy Medications
Your allergist may recommend:
- Antihistamines for mild reactions
- Nasal corticosteroids for nasal symptoms
- Epinephrine auto-injectors for severe food allergies
- Inhalers for asthma-related allergies
Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots)
For long-term management, consider immunotherapy:
- Gradually builds tolerance to allergens
- Can reduce or eliminate allergic reactions
- Provides long-lasting relief
- Tailored to your specific allergens
Emergency Action Plans
If you have severe allergies, your allergist will help you create an emergency action plan:
- Recognizing symptoms of severe reactions
- When and how to use emergency medications
- When to seek emergency medical care
- Communicating with schools, workplaces, and caregivers
Long-term Management
Taking these steps can help you effectively manage your allergies and enhance your quality of life. Regular follow-up appointments are important to:
- Monitor changes in your allergy profile
- Adjust treatment plans as needed
- Address any new symptoms or concerns
- Review and update emergency action plans
- Stay current with new treatments and strategies
Remember, managing allergies is an ongoing process. Work closely with your allergist to develop and maintain an effective management strategy. For more information on understanding your initial testing options, read our guide on understanding allergy testing options in New York.
Expert Care Team
Get support for your allergy management
Our board-certified allergists provide comprehensive follow-up care, helping you understand your results and develop effective management strategies.
