INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE ALLERGY SKIN TESTS

Please observe the following guidelines.

1. Please DO NOT take any antihistamines such as Claritin, Zrytec, Benadryl, Allegra, Xyzal,
or any other over-the-counter medication labeled for “allergy treatment”, for at least 5 days
before the testing. Also please review the attached list of other antihistamines, beta blockers,
and antidepressants which you should also avoid for 5 days prior to the testing. If you are
currently taking any of these medications please tell the allergy nurse or the physician.

2. Please complete the allergy questionnaire and bring it to the office the day of the test if you
have not already done so.

3. Please wear short sleeved or sleeveless apparel as the skin tests are done on your arms.

4. Make sure you eat breakfast before coming for a morning appointment, and lunch before
coming for an afternoon appointment. You do not need to change your diet before the test.

5. Bring a book, magazine, or something to pass the time during the testing. The testing usually
takes about an hour.

6. If you develop a cold, sore throat, or fever, or if you are having an asthma attack, your
allergy testing will need to be postponed. Please notify the office of any of these symptoms.

7. Please notify the office at least 2 days in advance if you have any other reason that you will
need to reschedule your allergy testing appointment.

8. If the results of the testing show you have specific allergies, the doctor will talk with you
about the types of treatment which are available including medications, allergy shots, or
allergy drops.

9. We do not expect that you will have any reaction or symptoms following the allergy testing,
so please call the office if you develop any symptoms of generalized itching, hives, severe
coughing or wheezing. You can take an antihistamine any time after the tests if symptoms
occur.

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