FAQs

Q: Do you do allergy testing on children?

A: Yes, we do testing on children over the age of 12 months, if indicated.    The type of testing that you have  done on your child will be discussed between you and the doctor.  Some kinds of allergy testing, such as food testing, is sometimes performed on children younger than 12 months.

Q: I only have one shot left, what do I do to get more shots?

A: You either need to set up an appointment or send in your shot sheets so the nurse can prepare new vials.  Please look on the Existing Patients page to see further details.

Q: My doctor told me a few years ago that my child does not have allergies, but I think my child has allergies now.  Is this possible?

A: Yes, children can develop allergies as they grow older.  Depending on their situation you might want to have your child tested or discuss with your pediatrician whether you feel their new symptoms are due to allergies.

Q: Are allergies genetic?

A:  If you have allergies, then your child might be predisposed to have allergies.  You having allergies does not guarantee that your child will have allergies, and it is best to wait and see what symptoms your child develops.

Q: What is the difference between Allegra and Allergra D or Zyrtec and Zyrtec D?  What does the D stand for?

A:  Allegra and Zyrtec are just straight antihistamines whereas Allegra D and Zyrtec D are an antihistamine and a decongestant.  When taking Allegra D or Zyrtec D, you should not take another decongestant (like Sudafed).

Q: I have high blood pressure, can I take a decongestant?

A: Generally, no, you should not take a decongestant because it could raise your blood pressure.  If you have any questions please talk to a nurse or the doctor.

Q: What kind of allergy testing do you do?

A: We do a prick test on your back.  A prick test is when you take small amounts of an allergen and put a little pin prick on your back.  Sometimes, after evaluating the prick test, the doctor may opt to do intradermals.  Intradermals are when a small amount of an allergen is inserted under your skin; this is usually done on your arm.

Q: Do I need an appointment to come in and get an allergy shot?

A: Once you and the doctor have discussed going on shots and decided to start them, you do not need an appointment to get the actual shot.  You only need an appointment to meet with the doctor, you can come in anytime during business hours to get an allergy shot.

Q: I have not had an allergy shot in over 3 months.  Is it okay if I get one?

A: No, you must first be seen by the doctor or talk to the nurse in order to restart your shots.

Q: Will my insurance cover my allergy shots?

A:  Every insurance is different.  You can try calling your insurance company and asking if they require you to pay a portion of your injection.  You can also check with the front desk after about a month of receiving shots, and see if your insurance company is billing you for a portion of your shot.

Q: Do I need a referral to come see the doctor?

A: We are a specialist so if you are covered under an HMO plan that requires a referral, then you will need to a have your primary care physician send a referral over to our office.