In evaluating a potential reaction to a salicylate, a physician will take a medical history and perform a physical exam.

Participation in an elimination diet is another method of uncovering salicylate sensitivity. In this test, the patient will spend a period of time eating foods with no salicylates, or very low levels of the chemical. The patient must also refrain from using any other products that contain salicylates. If symptoms disappear, salicylate sensitivity can be considered likely.

It is critical that patients work closely with a physician when altering their salicylate intake. A sudden spike in salicylate levels could produce life-threatening anaphylactic shock.