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Seasonal, Food, Medication Allergies 

Don't Let Arizona Allergies Control You: Why Allergy Testing is a Must

9/3/2025

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Living in Arizona is a dream for many, with its stunning landscapes and abundant sunshine.
But if you suffer from chronic sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, or persistent congestion, you know that the "dry heat" doesn't mean you're safe from allergies. In fact, Arizona's unique climate and diverse plant life can create a year-round allergy challenge.

If you're tired of relying on over-the-counter medications that only offer temporary relief, it's time to consider a more effective solution: allergy testing in Arizona. Here's why this is the critical first step toward lasting relief and a better quality of life.

Arizona's Unique Allergy Landscape: It's More Than Just Dust

Many people assume a desert state like Arizona has low pollen counts, but this is a common misconception. The dry, windy conditions actually allow pollen and dust to travel vast distances, impacting a wide area. Plus, the state's mild winters mean that various trees, grasses, and weeds can pollinate almost year-round.
Common Arizona allergens include:
  • Tree Pollen: Juniper, Mesquite, Mulberry, Ash, and Olive trees are major culprits, especially in the spring.
  • Weed Pollen: Ragweed and Russian thistle are significant triggers, particularly in the late summer and fall.
  • Grass Pollen: Bermuda grass and ryegrass can cause problems in the late spring and summer.
  • Indoor Allergens: Despite the dry climate, indoor allergens like dust mites, mold, and pet dander are still prevalent and can worsen symptoms, especially when you spend more time indoors.
Allergy testing near me Phoenix, Tempe, and Surprise.
The Top 5 Reasons to Get Allergy Tested in Arizona

  1. Pinpoint the Real Culprit: Your symptoms may feel like a constant cold, but they could be caused by a specific combination of allergens. An allergy test—such as a skin prick test or a blood test—can precisely identify what triggers your reactions. This eliminates the guesswork and allows for a targeted treatment plan.
  2. Move Beyond Temporary Relief: Over-the-counter allergy medications like antihistamines and nasal sprays can help manage symptoms, but they don't solve the underlying problem. An allergy test provides the information needed for a long-term solution, which may include immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops). Immunotherapy works by desensitizing your body to specific allergens, potentially providing long-lasting relief and even preventing the development of allergy-induced asthma.
  3. Prevent Worsening Health Issues: Chronic nasal congestion and inflammation from untreated allergies can lead to more serious conditions like chronic sinusitis, ear infections, and worsening asthma. Identifying and treating your allergies early can help prevent these complications and protect your long-term health.
  4. Personalized Treatment Plan: Once your specific allergens are identified, a healthcare professional can create a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs. This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. It can include a combination of avoidance strategies, medication, and immunotherapy, all designed to give you the best possible outcome.
  5. Reclaim Your Quality of Life: Imagine being able to enjoy a hike, work in your garden, or simply go outside without the fear of a debilitating allergy attack. Allergy testing and effective treatment can significantly improve your quality of life, allowing you to breathe easier, sleep better, and fully enjoy everything Arizona has to offer.

Ready to Find Relief?

If you're suffering from allergy symptoms in Arizona, don't wait. Getting tested is a simple and powerful step. A local allergy specialist at AFC Med can provide a comprehensive evaluation and create a plan to help you finally get your allergies under control. Stop letting allergies hold you back and start your journey toward a life with less sneezing and more sunshine.
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Food Allergy Symptoms: Complete Guide to Recognition and When to Seek Help

8/6/2025

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Food allergy testing near me in Phoenix, Tempe, and Surprise AZ
Do you experience unexplained symptoms after eating certain foods? You're not alone. Food allergy symptoms affect millions of Americans, yet many people struggle for years without a proper diagnosis. Understanding the signs of food allergies can be life-changing – and potentially life-saving.
​
Food allergies occur when your immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless food protein as a threat, triggering a range of symptoms that can affect multiple body systems. From mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening reactions, food allergy reactions vary significantly in severity and presentation.
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Immediate Food Allergy Symptoms (IgE-Mediated)

Immediate food allergy symptoms typically appear within minutes to two hours after consuming the trigger food.
​These reactions involve immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies and can range from mild to severe.
Skin and Surface SymptomsThe skin is often the first place food allergy symptoms appear:
Hives (Urticaria)
  • Raised, red, itchy welts on the skin
  • Can appear anywhere on the body
  • May change shape and location
  • Often one of the first signs of food allergies
Eczema Flare-ups
  • Dry, itchy, inflamed skin patches
  • Common in children with food allergies
  • May worsen after eating trigger foods
  • Often appears on face, elbows, and knees
Swelling (Angioedema)
  • Swelling of lips, tongue, eyelids, or face
  • Can affect deeper layers of skin
  • May indicate a serious reaction
  • Requires immediate medical attention if severe
Itching and Flushing
  • Generalized itching without visible rash
  • Red, warm skin
  • May accompany other symptoms

Gastrointestinal Food Allergy Symptoms

Digestive symptoms of food allergies can be immediate or delayed:
Nausea and Vomiting
  • Often occurs within minutes of eating
  • May be projectile in severe cases
  • Common in both children and adults
  • Can lead to dehydration if persistent
Diarrhea
  • Loose, watery stools
  • May contain blood or mucus
  • Can occur alone or with other symptoms
  • May lead to electrolyte imbalance
Abdominal Pain and Cramping
  • Sharp or dull stomach pain
  • May be accompanied by bloating
  • Can range from mild discomfort to severe pain
  • Often mistaken for other digestive issues

Respiratory Food Allergy Symptoms

Breathing problems from food allergies can be particularly concerning:
Wheezing and Coughing
  • High-pitched whistling sound when breathing
  • Persistent dry cough
  • May indicate asthma triggered by food
  • Can progress to more serious breathing difficulties
Nasal Congestion
  • Stuffy or runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Post-nasal drip
  • Often accompanies other allergy symptoms
Throat Symptoms
  • Scratchy or itchy throat
  • Hoarse voice
  • Feeling of throat tightness
  • Difficulty swallowing

Severe Food Allergy Symptoms: Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis symptoms represent the most serious food allergy emergency and require immediate medical attention:
Life-Threatening Signs Include:
​
Severe Breathing Difficulties
  • Inability to breathe or speak
  • Blue lips or fingernails (cyanosis)
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Severe wheezing or gasping
Cardiovascular Symptoms
  • Rapid or weak pulse
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Low blood pressure
  • Shock
Severe Whole-Body Reactions
  • Widespread hives covering large areas
  • Severe swelling of face, throat, or tongue
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Sense of impending doom

Common Food Allergy Triggers and Their Symptoms

Milk Allergy Symptoms
  • Digestive upset in lactose-intolerant individuals differs from true milk allergy
  • Skin reactions, respiratory symptoms, and digestive issues
  • More common in children, often outgrown
Egg Allergy Symptoms
  • Skin reactions most common
  • Respiratory symptoms possible
  • May affect vaccine tolerance
Peanut Allergy Symptoms
  • Often severe reactions
  • Can cause anaphylaxis
  • Usually lifelong condition
  • Cross-contamination risks high
Tree Nut Allergy Symptoms
  • Similar to peanut allergies
  • May react to some but not all tree nuts
  • Often causes severe reactions
Shellfish Allergy Symptoms
  • Most common adult food allergy
  • Can develop suddenly
  • Often causes severe reactions
  • May be triggered by cooking vapors
Fish Allergy Symptoms
  • Different from shellfish allergy
  • May react to some but not all fish
  • Can be triggered by cooking odors
Living Well Despite Food Allergies
With proper diagnosis and management, people with food allergies can live full, active lives. The key is understanding your food allergy symptoms, having appropriate emergency preparations, and working with healthcare providers to develop comprehensive management strategies.

Take action today if you're experiencing unexplained symptoms after eating. Early diagnosis and proper management of food allergies can prevent serious reactions and significantly improve your quality of life. Don't wait for a severe reaction – seek professional evaluation and take control of your health with AFC Allergy in Tempe, Phoenix and Surprise Arizona. .
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Food Allergy Testing in Tempe, Phoenix, and Surprise Arizona: Your Complete Guide

8/5/2025

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Living with undiagnosed food allergies can turn every meal into a source of anxiety. If you're experiencing unexplained digestive issues, skin reactions, or respiratory symptoms after eating, food allergy testing in Phoenix could provide the answers you need. Whether you're in Tempe, Surprise, or anywhere in the Valley, professional food allergy testing is your first step toward safe, confident eating.
Understanding Food Allergies vs. Food Intolerances
​Before seeking food allergy testing in Tempe, it's important to understand the difference between true food allergies and food intolerances:
Food Allergies involve your immune system and can cause:
  • Hives or skin rashes
  • Swelling of lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Anaphylaxis (life-threatening reaction)
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms
  • Cardiovascular symptoms
Food Intolerances typically cause digestive symptoms without immune system involvement:
  • Bloating and gas
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach cramps
  • Nausea
Food allergy testing near me in Phoenix, Tempe and Surprise Arizona.
Common Food Allergies in ArizonaFood allergists in Surprise Arizona and throughout the Phoenix metro area commonly test for these major allergens:
The "Big 9" Food Allergens:
  1. Milk - Most common in children, can persist into adulthood
  2. Eggs - Often develops in infancy, many children outgrow it
  3. Peanuts - Typically lifelong, can cause severe reactions
  4. Tree nuts - Including almonds, cashews, walnuts, pecans
  5. Fish - Usually develops in adulthood
  6. Shellfish - Most common adult food allergy
  7. Wheat - Different from celiac disease
  8. Soy - More common in infants and children
  9. Sesame - Recently added as the 9th major allergen
Regional Food Considerations in Arizona:
  • Cactus and desert plants used in Southwestern cuisine
  • Cross-contamination in Mexican restaurants
  • Spice allergies common in diverse Arizona communities
Types of Food Allergy Testing Available in Phoenix MetroSkin Prick Tests
Food allergy skin testing in Phoenix provides rapid results and is considered the gold standard for immediate-type food allergies. During this test:
  • Small amounts of allergen extracts are placed on your skin
  • The skin is gently pricked to allow allergen penetration
  • Results appear within 15-20 minutes
  • Positive reactions show as raised, red bumps (wheals)
Blood Tests (Specific IgE Testing)
Food allergy blood tests in Tempe measure antibodies your immune system produces in response to specific foods:
  • Ideal for patients taking medications that interfere with skin testing
  • Safe for those with severe eczema or skin conditions
  • Can test for multiple allergens simultaneously
  • Results available within a few days
Oral Food ChallengesThe gold standard for food allergy diagnosis:
  • Performed under medical supervision
  • Gradual introduction of suspected allergen
  • Most accurate test available
  • Only conducted in specialized allergy clinics
Finding Food Allergy Specialists in Arizona
When searching for food allergy doctors in Phoenix Arizona, consider these factors:
Board Certification.
Look for allergists certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology who specialize in:
  • Pediatric food allergies
  • Adult-onset food allergies
  • Severe food allergy management
  • Food immunotherapy
Experience with Food Allergies
Food allergy specialists in Tempe should have extensive experience with:
  • Complex food allergy cases
  • Multiple food allergies
  • Eosinophilic esophagitis
  • Food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES)
Preparing for Food Allergy Testing
Before Your Appointment:
  1. Keep a detailed food diary for 2-4 weeks
  2. List all medications and supplements
  3. Document reaction symptoms and timing
  4. Note family history of allergies
  5. Bring previous test results if available
Medications to Avoid:
  • Antihistamines (stop 3-7 days before skin testing)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • Beta-blockers (discuss with your doctor)
  • Proton pump inhibitors (may affect some tests)
Food Allergy Management and Treatment Options
Avoidance StrategiesFood allergy management in Phoenix starts with complete avoidance:
  • Reading ingredient labels carefully
  • Understanding food manufacturing processes
  • Identifying hidden sources of allergens
  • Restaurant communication strategies
Emergency Preparedness
  • Epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPen, Auvi-Q)
  • Emergency action plans
  • Medical identification jewelry
  • Family and school education
Emerging Treatments
Progressive food allergy treatment in Arizona includes:
Oral Immunotherapy (OIT)
  • Gradual introduction of allergen under medical supervision
  • Can increase tolerance to accidental exposures
  • Requires ongoing medical monitoring
Epicutaneous Immunotherapy (EPIT)
  • Patch-based treatment delivery
  • Currently in clinical trials
  • Less risk than oral approaches
Pediatric Food Allergies in Arizona
Pediatric food allergy testing in Tempe requires specialized expertise:
Common Childhood Food Allergies:
  • Milk and egg allergies often develop in infancy
  • Peanut allergies typically appear by age 2
  • Most children outgrow milk and egg allergies
  • Tree nut and shellfish allergies usually persist
School Management:Arizona schools are required to accommodate students with food allergies through:
  • 504 plans or IEPs
  • Staff emergency training
  • Epinephrine availability
  • Allergen-free lunch options
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Food allergy testing costs in Phoenix vary based on:
  • Type and number of tests performed
  • Insurance coverage and deductibles
  • Facility fees
  • Follow-up consultations
Most insurance plans cover medically necessary food allergy testing when:
  • Symptoms suggest food allergies
  • Previous reactions have occurred
  • Testing is ordered by a physician
When to Seek Emergency Care
Seek immediate medical attention for:
  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing
  • Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Rapid pulse or dizziness
  • Widespread hives
  • Severe vomiting or diarrhea
  • Loss of consciousness
Living Well with Food Allergies in Arizona
Dining Out Safely:
  • Research restaurants with allergy protocols
  • Communicate clearly with restaurant staff
  • Consider carrying chef cards in multiple languages
  • Know which cuisines pose higher risks
Shopping Tips:
  • Shop at stores with clear allergen labeling
  • Understand "may contain" warnings
  • Be aware of cross-contamination risks
  • Know alternative ingredient names
Finding Support in the Phoenix Community
Local Resources:
  • Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) support groups
  • Phoenix Children's Hospital allergy programs
  • School district allergy coordinators
  • Online Arizona food allergy communities
Schedule Your Food Allergy Testing Today At AFC MED
Don't let undiagnosed food allergies control your life. Whether you're dealing with childhood food allergies, adult-onset reactions, or complex multiple food allergies, professional food allergy testing in Tempe, Phoenix, and Surprise Arizona can provide the clarity and confidence you need.

Take the first step toward food freedom. Contact a board-certified allergist at AFC, in your area to schedule comprehensive food allergy testing. With accurate diagnosis and proper management, you can enjoy meals safely while maintaining your health and peace of mind.
Early identification and proper management of food allergies can prevent serious reactions and improve your quality of life. Don't wait for a severe reaction – get tested today and take control of your food allergies.

Searching for reliable food allergy testing in the Phoenix metro area? Experienced allergists in Tempe, Phoenix, and Surprise offer comprehensive food allergy testing and management services. Contact a qualified food allergy specialist today to schedule your evaluation and start your journey toward safe, confident eating.
​

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How accurate is food allergy testing? A: Skin prick tests and blood tests are highly accurate when interpreted by experienced allergists, with accuracy rates above 95% for most major food allergens.
Q: Can you develop food allergies as an adult? A: Yes, adult-onset food allergies are increasingly common, particularly shellfish, tree nuts, and fish allergies.
Q: How long do food allergy test results take? A: Skin test results are available immediately, while blood test results typically take 2-5 business days.
Q: Is food allergy testing covered by insurance? A: Most insurance plans cover medically necessary food allergy testing when ordered by a physician for diagnostic purposes.
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Comprehensive Allergy Testing and Treatment in Tempe, Phoenix, and Surprise, Arizona

8/5/2025

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Living with allergies in the Arizona desert can be particularly challenging.
Between the unique desert allergens, year-round sunshine that extends pollen seasons, and diverse food sensitivities, residents of Tempe, Phoenix, and Surprise need specialized allergy care that understands the local environment.
Understanding Arizona's Unique Allergy Landscape
Arizona's desert climate creates a distinctive allergy environment. While many people move to Arizona hoping to escape seasonal allergies, they often discover new triggers specific to the Sonoran Desert. The Phoenix metropolitan area, including Tempe and Surprise, experiences multiple pollen seasons throughout the year, making professional allergy testing and treatment essential for long-term relief.
Common Arizona Allergens
Tree Pollens: Palo verde (Arizona's state tree), mesquite, olive, ash, and mulberry trees are major contributors to seasonal allergies in the Phoenix Valley. These trees typically pollinate from February through May, creating extended allergy seasons.
Grass Pollens: Bermuda grass, a popular landscaping choice in Arizona, produces allergens from April through October. Johnson grass and other desert grasses also contribute to seasonal allergy symptoms.
Weed Pollens: Desert ragweed, Russian thistle (tumbleweed), and four o'clock plants are significant allergen sources, particularly during fall months.
Desert-Specific Allergens: Creosote bush, brittlebush, and desert broom create unique allergy challenges not found in other regions.
Allergy testing in Phoenix, Tempe, and Surprise Arizona.
Comprehensive Allergy Testing Services
Proper allergy diagnosis requires professional testing to identify specific triggers affecting your daily life. Modern allergy testing methods provide accurate, comprehensive results that guide effective treatment plans.

Seasonal Allergy Testing
Skin Prick Tests: This gold standard for environmental allergy testing evaluates reactions to Arizona-specific pollens, including local trees, grasses, and desert plants. Results are available within 20 minutes, allowing for immediate discussion of treatment options.
Intradermal Testing: For patients with unclear skin test results, intradermal testing provides enhanced sensitivity for detecting environmental allergies common in the Phoenix area.
Component Testing: Advanced molecular allergy testing identifies specific protein components within allergens, providing detailed information about cross-reactivity and severity of allergic reactions.
Food Allergy and Sensitivity TestingFood allergies and sensitivities can significantly impact quality of life. Professional testing distinguishes between true food allergies and food intolerances, ensuring appropriate treatment approaches.
Food-Specific IgE Testing: Blood tests identify immediate allergic reactions to common food allergens including peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, dairy, eggs, wheat, and soy.
Food Sensitivity Panels: Comprehensive testing for delayed food reactions that may cause digestive issues, skin problems, or systemic inflammation.
Oral Food Challenges: Supervised testing in clinical settings to confirm or rule out food allergies when other tests are inconclusive.
Advanced Treatment Options
​Effective allergy treatment goes beyond antihistamines. Modern allergy care offers multiple therapeutic approaches tailored to individual needs and specific Arizona allergens.
Managing Arizona's Year-Round Allergy Challenges
Arizona's climate means allergy sufferers face nearly year-round exposure to various allergens. Understanding seasonal patterns helps optimize treatment timing and preventive measures.

Spring Allergies (February - May)
Tree pollens dominate spring allergy seasons in Tempe, Phoenix, and Surprise. Palo verde trees create particularly intense yellow pollen clouds during peak blooming periods.
Summer Considerations (June - September)
While grass pollens continue, summer's extreme heat often drives people indoors, where dust mites and indoor allergens become primary concerns.
Fall Challenges (October - December)
​Desert ragweed and other fall weeds create significant allergy symptoms, often surprising newcomers to Arizona.
Winter Relief and Planning (January)Arizona's mild winters provide relative relief from outdoor allergens, making it an ideal time for allergy testing and treatment planning.
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Food Allergy Testing and Treatment Options in Phoenix, Tempe, and Surprise Arizona with AFC Allergy & Med

7/28/2025

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Living with unexplained food reactions can turn every meal into a guessing game. If you're experiencing mysterious symptoms after eating – from mild digestive discomfort to severe allergic reactions – it's time to get answers. AFC Allergy & Med, with convenient locations in Phoenix, Tempe, and Surprise, offers comprehensive food allergy testing and personalized treatment options to help Arizona residents reclaim their relationship with food.

Understanding Food Allergies vs. Food Sensitivities

Before diving into testing options, it's important to understand the difference between food allergies and food sensitivities. Food allergies involve an immune system response that can range from mild hives to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Food sensitivities, while less severe, can still significantly impact your quality of life with symptoms like bloating, headaches, fatigue, and digestive issues.
Common food allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, wheat, and soy – accounting for about 90% of all food allergic reactions. However, any food has the potential to trigger an allergic or sensitivity response.
Treat food allergies with allergy shots near me Tempe, Phoenix, Surprise AZ.
Test for food allergies near me
What are food allergies.

Comprehensive Food Allergy Testing at AFC Allergy & Med

Skin Prick Testing
The gold standard for food allergy testing, skin prick tests provide rapid results in about 15-20 minutes. During this test, small amounts of suspected allergens are introduced to the skin through tiny pricks. If you're allergic, a small raised bump will appear at the test site. This method is highly accurate for immediate allergic reactions and can test for multiple allergens simultaneously.

Blood Testing (Specific IgE)
For patients who cannot undergo skin testing due to severe eczema, certain medications, or other factors, blood tests measure specific IgE antibodies in your bloodstream. While results take longer than skin tests, blood testing can be particularly useful for detecting allergies to foods you haven't been exposed to recently.

Oral Food Challenge
Considered the most definitive test for food allergies, oral food challenges are conducted under strict medical supervision at our clinics. Patients consume increasing amounts of a suspected allergen while being closely monitored for reactions. This test is typically reserved for cases where other testing methods have been inconclusive.

Food Sensitivity Testing

Beyond traditional allergy testing, AFC Allergy & Med offers comprehensive food sensitivity panels that can identify delayed reactions to foods. These tests help uncover hidden triggers that might be causing chronic symptoms like digestive issues, skin problems, or fatigue.

Advanced Treatment Options

Personalized Elimination Diets
Based on your test results, our specialists create customized elimination diets that remove problematic foods while ensuring proper nutrition. We provide detailed guidance on reading food labels, finding safe alternatives, and maintaining a balanced diet.

Oral Immunotherapy (OIT)
For select patients with food allergies, we offer oral immunotherapy – a groundbreaking treatment that gradually introduces tiny amounts of allergens to build tolerance over time. This treatment has shown remarkable success in reducing the severity of allergic reactions and improving quality of life.

Emergency Action Plans
Every patient receives a personalized emergency action plan detailing how to recognize and respond to allergic reactions. We ensure you and your family members understand proper use of epinephrine auto-injectors and when to seek emergency medical care.

Nutritional Counseling
​Managing food allergies often requires significant dietary changes. Our registered dietitians work with patients to develop meal plans that avoid trigger foods while maintaining optimal nutrition, especially important for growing children and adults with multiple food allergies.

Why Choose AFC Allergy & Med?

Desert Expertise
Living in Arizona presents unique challenges for allergy sufferers. Our specialists understand how the desert climate and lifestyle factors can impact food allergies and sensitivities, providing treatment plans tailored to Valley living.

Three Convenient Locations
With clinics in Phoenix, Tempe, and Surprise, quality food allergy care is never far away. Each location offers the same high standard of care with state-of-the-art testing equipment and experienced allergists.

Comprehensive Care
From initial testing through ongoing management, we provide complete food allergy care under one roof. Our team includes board-certified allergists, registered nurses, and nutritional specialists working together for your health.

Family-Focused Approach
​Food allergies affect the entire family. We provide education and support for parents, caregivers, and patients of all ages, including school action plans and workplace accommodation guidance.

When to Seek Food Allergy Testing

Consider food allergy testing if you experience:
  • Immediate reactions after eating specific foods (hives, swelling, difficulty breathing)
  • Chronic digestive issues that improve when avoiding certain foods
  • Unexplained skin problems or eczema flares
  • Recurring headaches or fatigue after meals
  • Family history of food allergies
  • Previous mild reactions that seem to be worsening
Taking the Next Step
Don't let food allergies control your life. The first step toward answers is comprehensive testing with experienced professionals who understand the complexities of food allergies and sensitivities.

AFC Allergy & Med makes it easy to get started with same-day appointments available and most insurance plans accepted. Our patient coordinators will work with you to schedule testing at whichever location – Phoenix, Tempe, or Surprise – is most convenient for your family.

Ready to discover what's been causing your food reactions? Contact AFC Allergy & Med today to schedule your comprehensive food allergy evaluation. Your journey toward eating with confidence starts with a simple phone call.

Contact AFC Allergy & Med:
  • Phoenix Location: 1277 E Missouri Ave Ste 101A Phoenix, Arizona 85014
  • Tempe Location:2145 E Warner Rd, Ste 104 Tempe, AZ 85284
  • Surprise Location:14239 W Bell Rd UNIT 108 Surprise, AZ 85374
  • Online: AFCMed.com
Don't wait another day to get the answers you deserve. Your health and peace of mind are worth it.
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Stop Guessing, Start Living: Why Allergy Testing at AFC MED Is Your Path to Freedom

7/28/2025

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Do you find yourself dreading spring's arrival because of sneezing fits and watery eyes? Are you constantly checking ingredient labels, worried about your child's mysterious rashes, or avoiding social gatherings because of unpredictable reactions? You're not alone—and more importantly, you don't have to live this way.

The Hidden Cost of Untested Allergies

Every day, millions of people navigate life with undiagnosed allergies, playing a dangerous guessing game with their health. They pop antihistamines like candy, avoid entire food groups "just in case," and miss out on outdoor activities during beautiful weather. But here's what many don't realize: living with untested allergies isn't just uncomfortable—it's expensive, limiting, and potentially dangerous.
Consider Sarah, a local teacher who spent three years avoiding her favorite hiking trails every spring, convinced she was "just sensitive to pollen." After comprehensive allergy testing at AFC MED, she discovered she was only allergic to specific tree pollens that peaked in early March. Now she times her outdoor activities perfectly and uses targeted treatments that actually work. "I got my life back," she says. "I wish I'd done this years ago."
allergy testing near me Tempe AZ
Test for allergies near me Tempe

Why Professional Allergy Testing Changes Everything

Seasonal Allergies: Beyond the Generic "Pollen Allergy"Think all pollen is the same? Think again. AFC MED's comprehensive seasonal allergy panel tests for specific triggers including:
  • Tree pollens (oak, maple, birch, cedar)
  • Grass pollens (bermuda, timothy, johnson grass)
  • Weed pollens (ragweed, sagebrush, pigweed)
  • Mold spores (alternaria, aspergillus, cladosporium)
  • Dust mites and pet dander
When you know exactly what triggers your symptoms, you can:
  • Time outdoor activities to avoid your specific allergens
  • Choose the right medications that target your particular triggers
  • Make informed decisions about landscaping and home environment
  • Plan vacations and activities with confidence

Food Allergies: The Difference Between Life and Limitation

Food allergies affect 1 in 10 adults and 1 in 13 children, yet many people spend years eliminating foods unnecessarily or, worse, unknowingly consuming their triggers. AFC MED's food allergy testing covers the "Big 8" allergens plus additional common triggers:
  • Milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts
  • Wheat, soy, fish, shellfish
  • Plus testing for fruits, vegetables, and spices
Real talk: That "gluten sensitivity" might actually be a wheat allergy. Those "digestive issues" could be a milk protein allergy, not lactose intolerance. The difference matters—for your health, your diet, and your peace of mind.

The AFC MED Advantage: Testing That Actually Helps

Quick, Accurate, Comfortable TestingOur skin prick tests provide results in just 15-20 minutes, testing for multiple allergens simultaneously. No lengthy waits, no multiple appointments, no guesswork.
Expert InterpretationGetting tested is only half the battle. Our experienced providers don't just hand you results—they explain what they mean, help you understand cross-reactivities, and create personalized management plans.
Comprehensive CareBeyond testing, we provide:
  • Customized avoidance strategies
  • Medication recommendations tailored to your specific triggers
  • Emergency action plans for severe allergies
  • Follow-up care to adjust treatments as needed
Insurance-Friendly OptionsMost insurance plans cover allergy testing when medically necessary. Our staff helps navigate coverage questions, and we offer affordable self-pay options for those without insurance.

When Should You Get Tested?

For Seasonal Allergies:
  • Symptoms occur at the same time each year
  • Over-the-counter medications aren't providing relief
  • Symptoms interfere with work, school, or daily activities
  • You're tired of feeling miserable for months at a time
For Food Allergies:
  • Recurring digestive issues, skin reactions, or respiratory symptoms
  • Family history of food allergies
  • Previous reactions to foods but unsure which ones
  • Child showing signs of allergies (eczema, colic, feeding difficulties)

Stop Living in Limitation
Here's the truth: You don't have to accept a life limited by allergies. Every sneeze-filled spring, every declined dinner invitation, every food you avoid "just to be safe"—these don't have to be your normal.

Comprehensive allergy testing at AFC MED takes about an hour and can change your life. Imagine knowing exactly what to avoid and what's perfectly safe. Picture enjoying outdoor activities without dread, eating with confidence, and finally having treatments that actually work because they target your specific triggers.
Ready to Take Control?Your allergies have been calling the shots long enough. It's time to get answers, get relief, and get your life back.

Schedule your allergy testing consultation at AFC MED today.
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Tempe Address:
  • 2145 E Warner Rd, Ste 104 Tempe, AZ 85284
Phoenix Address
  • 1277 E Missouri Ave Ste 101A Phoenix, AZ 85014
Surprise Address
  • 14239 W Bell Rd UNIT 108 Surprise, AZ 85374

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CLINIC HOURS

Monday, Thursday:
​9:00am - 12:00pm & 3:00pm-5:30pm

Wednesday:
8:30am - 12:00pm & 2:00pm-5:30pm
​

Friday:
8:00am - 12:30pm
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Allergy and Food Sensitivity Testing Clinic

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AFC Med Allergy Testing Arizona