Preparing For Your Visit

Food or Drug Challenges

A food/drug challenge is done to help identify an allergy to a specific food/drug and the amount of that food/drug it may take to cause a reaction. In order to be prepared for your or your child's food/drug challenge, please do the following:

• Bring in the specific food/drug for the food challenge on the day of the test. If your child is having a food challenge, you should bring a favorite food in which to place the food to be challenged if you think he/she may refuse the food being challenged.
• Antihistamines will affect the results of these tests and need to be stopped 3 days before the testing is done. If you have any concerns about stopping antihistamines, check with your/your child's doctor before you stop the medicine. We may not be able to perform the test if this medicine is not stopped.
• Be sure to bring snacks, meals, other essentials (such as diapers or other medicines you may need to take during the day such as insulin), and things to pass the time (such as books or toys). A food challenge can take 4 hours or longer and you will not be allowed to leave the office until the challenge is complete.

Learn more about our food/drug challenges here »

Patch Testing for Skin Allergies

• A patch test is a common test used to determine what is triggering an allergic reaction by the skin. The allergic reaction is referred to as allergic contact dermatitis. The trigger of the allergic reaction is called the allergen. Common allergens include metals (nickel), fragrances, adhesives, and other chemicals.
• During the test, different potential allergens are applied to the skin in the medical office and then left in place to give time for the skin to react. Your doctor will select allergens that are suspected to be possible triggers of the rash.

Learn more about patch testing for skin allergies here »

New Patient Appointment Instructions

Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your appointment to allow time to register. Please remember:

• No oral antihistamines or decongestants for 48 hours prior to appointment.
• If you are taking montelukast (Singulair), inhalers, or nose sprays, you may continue to do so.
• Bring a photo ID, your insurance card(s), a list of your current medications (prescriptions, over-the-counter, and supplements), and all copays due at the time of service.

See more instructions regarding new patient appointments here »

Please call our office at (216) 381-3333 prior to your appointment with any questions related to this information. Thank you, and we look forward to the opportunity to participate in your healthcare!