Learn More From Our Allergy Specialists

Your first visit, which could last 2-4 hours, will include a detailed medical history, physical examination, and, in many cases, allergy skin testing. Other studies may include X-rays, laboratory tests, and lung function tests.  We do ask that you not take any antihistamine medication for at least 5 days prior to your first visit since they may interfere with your allergy skin test results. If you have any question about the type of medication you are taking, please ask one of our staff, your pharmacist, or refer to our antihistamine link.

After we have obtained a full history and necessary testing has been completed, one of our Board-Certified Allergist will review your findings with you. We will work together to determine the best course of action and establish a treatment plan. Treatment plans could include avoidance of allergens, medications, and/or immunotherapy (allergy shots).

If you would like to schedule an appointment with The Allergy Asthma Group of Galen or have general questions, please call (423) 445-7157.

If you have an upcoming new patient appointment, please complete the forms listed below. Your information will be sent to our scheduling department via a secure server.

Payment

Payment should be made at the time of the visit for any unmet deductible, co-payment, or noncovered items. We accept cash, personal checks, VISA, MasterCard, or Discover. Any account having a returned check will be assessed a service charge of $30.00. Under special circumstances, payment plans may be arranged.

Appointment Cancellation

This appointment time has been reserved especially for you. If you are unable to keep your appointment, kindly let us know at least 24 hours in advance so we can make the slot available to someone else. Failure to do so may result in a cancellation fee.

Perfumes and Colognes

Many of our patients are extremely sensitive to odors. Out of consideration for these patients, please do not wear perfumes, colognes, or scented lotions while in the office.

Food

Out of courtesy for our patients who have food allergies, please do not bring food on the day of your visit unless specifically instructed by a member of our staff.

Allergy symptoms can range from itchy, watery, swollen eyes to sleep disturbances.

Asthma is an inflammatory condition of varying severity that causes hyper-reactivity of the bronchial airways. 

Please allow approximately 2-4 hours.  

The initial medical examination we provide is comprehensive. Skin testing and/or asthma testing is performed, X-rays are taken (if needed), test results are discussed, and treatment recommendations are made.

Yes. You may also bring snacks and drinks to your appointment. Due to the sensitivity of some of our food allergy patients, we ask that you wait until you are in the exam room to eat or drink anything.

For the most part, the answer is yes.  Antihistamines can interfere with allergy testing. For this reason, if you are taking Claritin, Clarinex, loratadine, Zyrtec, or Allegra, please stop taking that medicine five days prior to your appointment. Please do not take any antihistamine medication, including over-the-counter medicines, for at least 72 hours before your first visit.  

Yes. Singulair is advertised as an antihistamine, but it is not on the list of antihistamines to stop taking. You do not have to stop taking Singulair.

Yes. Antibiotics do not interfere with testing.

For most people there is little discomfort; however, we do provide anesthetic for children.

 A few patients may experience local swelling in the area that the intradermal skin test is performed.

Yes, there are no special restrictions related to allergy testing.

Each exam room is equipped with a TV and DVD player.  You are welcome to bring along some favorite books and/or toys.

We recommend comfortable clothing, including a short-sleeved shirt. If we test for asthma, we may have you exercise on a treadmill, so appropriate walking or running footwear will be needed.

No. Everyone is different and testing will be based on individual needs.

No. We routinely test patients of all ages.

Yes. Please bring them with you or have your Primary Care Provider send them to us.  This will help our providers have a complete picture of your health.

Yes! It will be in detail, with treatment recommendations and medication instructions.

Yes, but it does not mean you are allergic. We look for reactions within the first 20 minutes of testing.

Although we participate in various insurance plans, we strongly recommend that you check with your insurance company to verify coverage for allergy/asthma testing and treatment you will be receiving from us.  Ultimately, you are responsible for the charges.

Depending on insurance coverage and testing performed, most patients experience a charge of approximately $800-$1,500.

Co-pays are expected during check-in for the visit. 

Our standard panel of allergens includes molds, grasses, trees, weeds, and environmental agents (dust mites, dog, cat, feathers, etc.) Food Allergies are tested on as as-needed basis.

Yes. These are handled on a case-by-case basis, please call our office for additional information.

No. Each office has a dedicated shot lab area.

Please contact us at (423) 445-7157. We will be happy to answer any additional questions you may have.

Yes! Request your appointment today.