Food allergy testing in Fresno & Merced, CA

Accurate diagnosis for lasting relief

Experts at Sierra Allergy Asthma & Sinus Center understand how distressing and even dangerous food allergies can be. Whether you’re experiencing digestive discomfort, skin reactions, or anaphylaxis, proper diagnosis is the first and most important step toward effective food allergy management. Our advanced food allergy testing services in Fresno and Merced, California help you get the answers you need safely, and accurately.

Why food allergy testing matters

Food allergy symptoms can range from mild itching to life-threatening reactions. But many people in Fresno and Merced go undiagnosed, often confusing food allergies with food intolerances or sensitivities. Without accurate testing, it’s easy to make unnecessary dietary restrictions or overlook a dangerous allergen.

Our certified allergists specialize in identifying food allergies using state-of-the-art diagnostic methods, helping you regain confidence in your health and your meals.

Signs you may need a food allergy test

You should consider professional allergy testing if you experience any of the following symptoms after eating:

• Hives, rash, or itchy skin
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal cramps
• Diarrhea or digestive distress
• Wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath
• Repeated eczema flare-ups
• Anaphylaxis or sudden allergic shock

Patients from across Fresno and Merced often come to us with vague or unexplained symptoms, only to find that a hidden food allergy is the cause.

Types of food allergy tests we offer

We offer comprehensive food allergy testing tailored to your history and symptoms. Our process includes a detailed consultation, review of dietary patterns, and one or more of the following tests:

Skin Prick Testing

• Small amounts of suspected food allergens are applied to your skin.A tiny prick allows the allergen to enter just under the surface.
• If you are allergic, a red bump or hive will appear within 15–20 minutes.
• Ideal for diagnosing IgE-mediated food allergies like peanut, tree nut, milk, or shellfish.

Blood Testing (Specific IgE Testing)

• Measures the presence of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood.Useful for patients with a history of severe reactions or those who cannot undergo skin testing.
• Can help monitor allergy levels over time.

Oral Food Challenges

• Conducted in a safe, supervised medical setting.You consume small amounts of a suspected allergen under close observation.
• Considered the gold standard for confirming or ruling out a food allergy.
• Performed only when necessary and under strict medical protocols.

Patch Testing for Delayed Reactions

• Evaluates non-IgE-mediated allergies or food sensitivities that appear hours to days later.
• May be used for chronic eczema or gastrointestinal symptoms.

Who should get tested?

Food allergy testing is recommended for:

• Children with eczema, hives, or asthma symptoms after meals
• Adults with unexplained digestive issues or skin problems
• Individuals with family history of food allergies
• Anyone who has experienced an allergic reaction to a specific food
• Parents wanting to introduce common allergens safely to their children
• Those with multiple food intolerances or restricted diets

Local expertise you can trust

Serving the communities of Fresno and Merced, our clinic offers:

• Certified allergists with years of experience in food allergy diagnosis
• Individualized testing plans based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and history
• State-of-the-art equipment and safety protocols
• A compassionate, evidence-based approach to food allergy care
• Coordination with nutritionists and primary care providers as needed

Our goal is not just to give you a list of foods to avoid, but to help you live more freely, safely, and confidently.

Food allergy testing vs food sensitivity

It’s important to distinguish between food allergies and food intolerances. A true food allergy involves the immune system and can trigger severe reactions, while a food intolerance or sensitivity may cause milder symptoms like bloating or fatigue and is not life-threatening.

Our allergists can help determine whether you need allergy testing or sensitivity evaluation and recommend appropriate next steps.

Schedule food allergy testing in Fresno or Merced, CA

Whether you’re concerned about peanut allergies, dairy intolerance, or mysterious digestive issues, the first step is proper diagnosis. Sierra Allergy Asthma & Sinus Center offers trusted, evidence-based testing to guide your care.