West Seattle Natural Medicine, PC

Allergy Department 

Instructions for a successful allergy appointment: 

How long is my appointment? It can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours for the first allergy appointment. We will not do foods and environmental allergens (pollens, molds, animals) on the same day so if you are having both done, you will need to schedule for 2 separate visits. 

What will we be testing? In addition to either common foods or things such as pollens, dusts, molds and animal dander we also may test glycerin and histamine on your arm at your visit. 

What do I do before hand? DO NOT wear perfumes, colognes, lotions or aftershave if you can help it. We discourage parents from bringing children to your visit as it’s a small space and there are often 2 patients in the same room at the same time.  

DO NOT take antihistamines such as Claritin, Clarinex, or Zyrtec, nasal sprays or any other decongestant, tranquilizers, steroids or sleeping pills for 24-72 hours (72 is preferred) before the visit. We also discourage asthma medications s if you can stay off of them for 24-72 hours prior. Try to limit vitamin C to 1000 mg the day before the visit as well. All other vitamins are fine. However, you can check with your provider before the visit to check on what you are taking if you have questions.  

If you are having foods tested you are encouraged to eat your reactive or suspected foods for 24 to 48 hours before the appointment but this isn’t mandatory. 

What do I wear/bring to the appointment? We will be testing on your shoulder/upper arm so please wear a short- sleeved shirt or tank top. You are encouraged to bring reading material or something to work on during the visit. Please eat before your appointment as only water and tea are allowed during the visit.