What are the best methods for allergy testing to specifically identify a Crested Wheatgrass pollen allergy?

To specifically identify a Crested Wheatgrass pollen allergy, a combination of medical history, skin prick tests (SPTs), and blood tests are often used.
Your doctor will first ask about your symptoms, their frequency and duration, and any potential exposures you might have had to allergens, including Crested Wheatgrass pollen.

Skin prick testing is another common procedure in allergy diagnostics which involves applying a tiny amount of the suspected allergen, in this case, Crested Wheatgrass pollen, to your skin using a small, sterile probe. If you're allergic, you'll develop a raised, red area at the prick site, typically within 15 to 20 minutes.

Blood tests, such as ImmunoCAP Specific IgE blood test, are also used to detect and measure the amount of allergen-specific antibodies circulating in your blood. If you have a Crested Wheatgrass pollen allergy, your immune system overreacts to the pollen and produces antibodies to fight it. These tests aren't influenced by antihistamines or older age, unlike skin tests.

Your doctor may choose to use one or a combination of these tests depending on your age, symptoms, and health condition. Some people may warrant more invasive methods, like nasal smears or challenge tests, but these aren't typically the first line of allergy testing. Always consult a medical professional for personalized advice.

In allergy management, remember: avoidance of the allergen is the most effective method once an allergy has been identified. You may also be prescribed medication to manage symptoms.