After work yesterday I went to see my allergist for patch testing. Here's what my back currently looks like.
I have to wear these all weekend. I go back Monday afternoon to have the tape and patches removed so that the sites can be evaluated for allergic reactions. This means that I can't shower until then, only take small "bird baths", and if I want to wash my hair I have to do it with my head over the sink. I'm not supposed to let this area get wet.So it's going to be a long, grubby weekend for me. Thank goodness I didn't make any plans for the first few days of my break! I'm a shower girl all the way, and I usually wash my hair every day. Oh well!
OK, I had this test years ago, and it only took an hour or so. Obviously not quite the same test -- mine wasn't patches, more like little injections, I think...? Anyway, it's interesting that the testing protocol is apparently different now. Maybe patches are safer. At least you're on break and it's the weekend!
ReplyDeleteWhen I got tested for allergies, it was like you describe. Little scratches (or injections) and within the hour we knew all the common allergens I reacted to. This is different. This tests for chemicals that cause a skin reaction (46 of them!) and must be held against the skin for 48-36 hours. The nurses who applied the patches and tape said they only do one or two of these a week, since it's less common stuff.
DeleteAh, I see! Thanks for the clarification.
DeleteIt's good to "go greasy" every once in a while!
ReplyDeleteI had a good wash with soap, warm water, and a washcloth this morning, and I still feel gross, not having had my usual shower. And I hate for my hair to feel greasy!
DeleteWhat an odd ordeal. I wonder what they'll find.
ReplyDeleteThey're testing for 46 chemicals/substances that could be causing a severe reaction on the skin of my feet.
DeleteHow awful! It seems I've just recently developed eczema. So far mild. Nothing like what you've talked about experiencing, but I thought of writing for advice. Then I went to the pharmacy and was given a cream that resolves it quickly. Our pharmacy can provide prescription meds without prescriptions (just not anti-depressants, anti-anxiety, and some types of painkillers). Anyway, it seems to be undere control and I don't even use the cream every day. Here's hoping!
DeleteOne of my daughters just got allergy testing done but she didn't have to wait for three days for results. I think they were pretty quick. Must be different types of tests.
ReplyDeleteYou will very much enjoy your shower on Monday after the appointment!
Yes, these are different than standard allergy tests (see my reply to Steve) and the nurses told me they don't do them very often. This is to see if I'm allergic to chemicals used in making shoes....which would explain the severe eczema on the tops and sides of my feet.
DeleteHere's to the results!
ReplyDeleteHoping you get some answers! It really is good to let our skin and hair have a break from washing. I know, it does feel gross though!
ReplyDeleteHope you get easy answers to your eczema trouble, Jennifer!
ReplyDeleteI hope you get some answers.
ReplyDeleteThat looks like almost 50 different tests. I'm sure they'll find one or two that are causing trouble.
ReplyDeleteI guess the result will be worth the effort, so that you know what to avoid in future and what won‘t be a problem.
ReplyDeleteHope the results make it worthwhile.
ReplyDeleteI am so glad I'm allergy free. I remember a friend back in high school having to go through that.
ReplyDeleteBest of all possible luck with the allergy test. I know you've had an awful time of it. And because I too suffer from allergies, I won't suggest a cure or a treatment, because THAT S#%T GETS OLD. (If I had a nickle-!!) I do hope that they find something easily treatable. And I hope it has nothing to do with 1. eating local honey 2. apple cider vinegar 3. acupuncture 4. cocaine 5. carbolic 6. smoking 7. creosote SCRAPED OFF A PHONE POLE.....sigh. I could go on and on.
ReplyDeleteI itch as the sight of those things.
ReplyDelete