Top Allergy Testing Options in NYC: What Patients Need to Know

Top allergy testing options in NYC can make a significant difference for individuals suffering from chronic sneezing, congestion, rashes, or unexplained asthma. In a city filled with potential allergens — from seasonal pollen and mold to pet dander and food triggers — accurate allergy testing is the first step toward lasting relief.

Dr. Boyan Hadjiev, also known as “Dr. Sneeze,” offers advanced diagnostic tools tailored to the diverse and often complex needs of New York City residents. Whether you’re struggling with indoor or outdoor allergies, understanding your testing options is key to creating an effective treatment plan.

Why Allergy Testing Matters

Allergy symptoms can be vague, overlap with other conditions, and vary in severity — which makes diagnosis without testing difficult and often inaccurate. Testing helps determine:

• Exactly which allergens are triggering your symptoms
• How severe your reactions are
• Whether immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops) may be beneficial
• What lifestyle changes and medications will be most effective

With precise test results, your allergist can craft a personalized plan to reduce or eliminate symptoms — rather than just masking them.

Types of Allergy Tests Offered in NYC

1. Skin Prick Testing (SPT)

Skin prick testing is the most commonly used method to detect environmental and food allergies.

• How it works: A small amount of allergen is placed on your skin (usually the forearm), followed by a gentle prick.
• Time to results: Reactions are visible in 15–20 minutes as a small red bump or wheal.
• Tests for: Pollen, mold, pet dander, dust mites, and common food allergens.

2. Intradermal Skin Testing

Used when skin prick testing is inconclusive or when a more sensitive approach is needed.

• How it works: A small amount of allergen is injected just under the skin.
• Tests for: Environmental allergens, insect venom, and sometimes drug allergies.

3. Specific IgE Blood Testing

Blood testing is ideal for patients who can’t stop taking antihistamines or those with severe eczema.

• How it works: A blood sample is taken to measure immune system responses to various allergens.
• Time to results: Usually within a few days.
• Tests for: Food allergens, pet dander, mold, and airborne irritants.

4. Component-Resolved Diagnostics (CRD)

A cutting-edge form of blood testing that provides detailed insight into food and environmental allergies.

• Why it’s advanced: It breaks down allergens into specific proteins, helping to distinguish between mild sensitivity and high-risk reactions.
• Best for: Patients with suspected peanut, tree nut, or shellfish allergies, or those considering immunotherapy.

5. Patch Testing

Patch testing is used for identifying delayed allergic reactions — often seen in skin rashes or eczema.

• How it works: Patches containing potential allergens are applied to the skin for 48 hours.
• Tests for: Contact allergens like nickel, fragrances, preservatives, and latex.

Which Test Is Right for You?

Choosing the right test depends on:

• Your symptoms and suspected triggers
• Your age and overall health
• Whether you’re currently taking allergy medications
• Your medical history and past allergy reactions

In some cases, your allergist may recommend a combination of tests to fully understand your condition.

What to Expect During an Allergy Test

• Most tests are performed in-office and take less than an hour.
• You may be asked to stop antihistamines several days beforehand.
• Results are often immediate (for skin testing) or available within a week (for blood tests).
• A treatment plan will follow based on your results, including possible dietary or environmental changes, medications, or immunotherapy.

Schedule Advanced Allergy Testing in NYC

If you’re dealing with chronic allergy symptoms, stop guessing and start testing. For the top allergy testing options in NYC, schedule your evaluation with Dr. Boyan Hadjiev today at:

Allergy, Asthma and Sinusitis P.C
Boyan Hadjiev, MD
30 East 40th Street
Suite 1200
New York, NY 10016
212-319-5282

Accurate testing is the foundation of effective allergy relief. Find out what’s triggering your symptoms and take control of your health with the help of NYC’s trusted allergy specialist.