Allergy Tests: When It’s Needed and When It’s Not

The PedsDocTalk Podcast: Child Health, Development & Parenting—From a Pediatrician Mom

Have you ever wondered whether your child really needs an allergy test? Or have you been tempted by those flashy direct-to-consumer kits, this conversation is a must-listen. Let’s tackle the rise of at-home “food sensitivity” tests, the difference between IgE and IgG, and why a detailed history matters more than any panel of results.

In this episode, I’m joined once again by pediatric allergist Dr. Dave Stukus to break down what parents really need to know about allergy testing. From food allergies to seasonal sniffles, we dive into when testing is actually helpful—and when it leads to confusion, false positives, and unnecessary food restrictions.

We discuss:

• Why most at-home food sensitivity tests are misleading—and what to do instead

• When allergy testing is truly helpful (and when it backfires)

• How to tell the difference between food allergies, intolerances, and sensitivities

To connect with Dr. Dave Stukus follow him on Instagram @allergykidsdoc, check out all his resources at https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/find-a-doctor/profiles/david-r-stukus

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00:00 – Intro

01:16 – Why History Matters More Than Tests

03:00 – When Should You Test?

05:26 – False Positives and the Limits of Testing

07:03 – Blood vs. Skin Testing: What's the Difference?

09:07 – Eczema in Infants: To Test or Not to Test?

11:01 – Seasonal Allergies and the Right Time to Test

12:08 – Myth: “Allergy Tests Aren’t Reliable in Infants”

14:20 – The Problem with Food Sensitivity Tests

17:13 – The Red Flags of Unvalidated Testing

20:07 – The Real Harm of Over-Testing

22:35 – Final Takeaway: Ask Questions, Follow the Science

23:27 – The Truth About Panel Testing

25:10 – Can You Test for Seasonal Allergies Year-Round?

26:05 – Where to Follow Dr. Stukus

26:53 – Dr. Mona’s Reflection and Wrap-Up

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