What New Patients Should Expect

Find Out How to Prepare for Your Appointment with Our Board-Certified Allergy and Asthma Experts

At the Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia, we welcome patients who are new to the area or to our practice. Our board-certified allergists and immunologists work with pediatric and adult patients who suffer from allergies, asthma, and other related conditions.

Read below to learn about what to expect and how to prepare for your first visit to one of our nine Atlanta-area locations.  If your appointment includes allergy testing, please review the list of medications to stop in advance of your testing appointment.

Medical History

During your first consultation, your allergy and asthma specialist will want to understand the current issues you are experiencing, as well as your past medical history. Allergies and asthma involve the body as a whole, so it is helpful for your allergist to understand your medical background and any relevant family history in order to recommend appropriate testing and an effective treatment plan.

Physical Exam

A physical exam helps your physician determine what kind of symptoms and factors are involved in your condition. Your allergist may examine your skin, eyes, ears, nose, heartbeat, respiration, or other physical conditions to deliver an accurate diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan for your asthma or allergies.

TESTING

Breathing Test

Many allergies and asthma sufferers have trouble catching their breath or breathing deeply. Your allergist may perform a series of non-invasive tests to determine the condition of your respiratory system and to develop an effective treatment plan.

Allergy Scratch Test

If your CAA allergist thinks you or your child may have allergies, he or she may suggest an allergy scratch test, also known as an allergy skin test or skin prick test. An allergy scratch test is an efficient, minimally-invasive way to test multiple allergens at one time. Your allergy doctor will apply small amounts of suspected allergens to either your forearm or upper back, and after about 20 minutes check to see which ones have caused a reaction.

• Stop Specific Medications: Some medications can interfere with the results of a skin test. For accurate test results, it is important to withhold certain medications, such as antihistamines, prior to an allergy skin test. For a list of medications to withhold, and for what duration, please see our complete list. 
• Wear Comfortable Clothing: Our staff will need to access areas of your skin, like your back, to complete testing.
• Inform Your Doctor: Let your doctor know about all the medications and supplements you are taking.
• Stay Hydrated and Eat Normally: There is no need to fast, so eat and drink as you usually would unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• Bring Medical Records: If you have previous test results or a record of your symptoms, bring them along to provide a comprehensive overview of your condition.

Schedule Your First Appointment With Our Atlanta Area Allergy Doctors

If you have any questions or concerns about what to expect as a new patients at the Center for Allergy And Asthma of Georgia, contact our office and we will be happy to assist you.