Allergy Testing Instructions

PLEASE CALL IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO ATTEND - 24 hours prior to avoid the $100 fee.

Your doctor has suggested that your problems may be a result of allergies. Our first step is to identify what allergens you may be allergic to. Some of the things we will be testing for include house dust, house dust mites, animal danders and molds. Some outdoor allergens that we also test for are grass, weed and tree pollens. These allergens have been specifically picked for prevalence in this geographical area. We will not test for foods using this method of testing.

Your allergy test will take about 3 hours to perform. It is done by injecting very small amounts of specific allergens in between the layers of your skin. This procedure is not painful, just a little uncomfortable. This method is considered the most sensitive allergy skin test. When we are finished we will be able to discuss your results with you. The following instructions are very important – please follow them:

It is very important that you inform the person who will perform your tests of all medications you are currently taking, especially medications for high blood pressure or heart conditions.

Prior to your testing you will need to stop the following medications:

• Claritin, Clarinex, Alavert, or other over-the-counter allergy medications, and other cold medications if they contain antihistamines ONE WEEK PRIOR
• Zyrtec, Allegra and topical steroids such as Flonase, Nasonex, Rhinocort, etc. should be stopped 3 DAYS PRIOR to testing.
• Cortisone should be stopped 2 DAYS PRIOR to testing
• Certain anti-depressants or tranquilizers should be stopped THE MORNING OF TESTING
• Beta-blockers should be stopped 2 DAYS PRIOR to testing
• Antihistamines must be discontinued at the very least 3 DAYS PRIOR to testing
  
  

  Medications which would interfere with testing if not discontinued
  Allegra Alka-Seltzer Plus Atarax Benadryl Chlortrimeton Claritin	Coricidin Dimetap Dimetane Ebastel Hismanal Periactin	Phenagran Semprex Tavist Tylenol Cold and Sinus Zaditen Zyrtec
  Certain Tricyclic Antidepressants and Corticosteroids

  
  Do not stop taking any medications which may cause a reaction or illness if discontinued. Discuss this with the physician or the allergy nurse.
  
  Medications may be resumed after the testing.
  

1. Wear loose, comfortable clothing: sleeveless shirts will be appreciated since these tests are performed on the upper arms.
2. Bring a book or reading material for your enjoyment
3. During the week prior to testing carry on a normal lifestyle; eat foods you normally eat.
4. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding this procedure, please call us.

  Home  

  Contact Us  

  Privacy  

  Links  

  Disclaimer