If I have negative skin tests, does that mean I could not be allergic?

Allergists will typically use skin testing to find the presence or absence of an allergy. Skin testing can be done to allergens such as dust mites, cat, dogs, trees, etc as well as to foods, insect stings and, at times, antibiotics. Skin testing is done according to standard protocols typically using commercially prepared and monitored extracts. As with any test, it is possible that, even when done correctly, it may not be 100% accurate. . read more.

Getting the Facts on Food Allergy Testing

If you have ever experienced red, itchy skin, swelling, vomiting or trouble breathing after eating or coming into contact with a certain food, you may wonder if you have a food allergy. While diagnosing food allergies can be tricky, an allergist has the training and expertise to know which tests to give you and how to accurately interpret them. . read more.

Just For Kids

Hey kids! The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) has games, puzzles, videos and more to help you learn about managing your allergies and asthma. Share these links with your friends so they can learn too! Visit these fun and informative links. . read more.

Can consumers trust allergen advisory labels on food products?

For people with food allergies, shopping for safe foods to insure effective avoidance can be very confusing. Packaged foods often have labels advising of possible allergen contaminants, using wording like “may contain” or “made in a facility that processes”. This labeling, though, is voluntary and not standardized or regulated. Surveys suggest that food-allergic consumers appear to be increasingly ignoring these warnings, presumably out of frustration and doubt about whether the information can be trusted. . read more.

Summer Means Barbecues, Picnics — and Food Allergies

Ants, bees and rain aren't the only things that can put a damper on a picnic or barbecue. For more than 12 million Americans food allergies can ruin the fun too, by causing problems ranging from the mild (itchy bumps and stomach aches) to the severe and life-threatening (swelling of the throat and difficulty breathing). . read more.

Pet ownership is good for the soul, but is it good for the immune system?

Parents frequently ask physicians whether they should allow their children to have a household dog or cat because they worry that the exposure can cause allergies. So far, research findings on this question have been mixed. No study has taken a comprehensive look at the combined factors that could influence the answer, i.e., time, length and type of exposure, how long any protective effects might last, and the results of clinical tests that could confirm allergic sensitization. . read more.