What to expect from scratch test

Everyusernameistaken

Hi ladies

My 11 month old son will be getting a scratch test done on Friday...just curious what to expect, how uncomfortable it will be for him, etc.  I had one done a few years ago and the itching from the reactions was so uncomfortable.

Thank you

cmrand4

My LO had one done a week and a half ago. He did not even notice that they were poking him at all.  He probably noticed that he had his shirt off more since he does not like to be dressed.  Bring something to keep him occupied for the 20 minutes or so waiting for the results.  LO had two spots that reacted and I can't tell if he noticed or not.  It will be fine--waay easier than I would have thought.

aandg

My daughter had hers done a couple of months ago. She wasn't too happy when they did the pricking part, but was fine after that. She didn't seem too itchy and she had some pretty big reactions. After the 15 minutes was up they washed off her back and put some lotion on to soothe her. It wasn't a big deal at all. Good luck to you!

lrn327

At the age your LO is, it was fine.  He really didn't understand so we just had to keep him entertained.  Now that my DS is older though he really hates it.  Our allergist doesn't do back pricks, only arm, so the mechanism could be different. 

Everyusernameistaken

Thanks so much ladies.  He took it like a champ

Court0026

We started scratch testing around 18 months and our allergy office would let DS run around the halls to keep him distracted.  They also provide dvds.  I brought toys, books, etc.  He was fine.  NOW, he is old enough to get it more and he is really upset about having to go this summer (he goes 1x a year and remembers it).

Court0026

Everyusernameistaken:

Thanks so much ladies.  He took it like a champ

Sorry!  I replied without scrolling all the way down! I just had my first scratch testing done and I thought the actual scratches were AWFUL!  These kids are champs for sure.