What to Expect on Your First Visit

What to expect on your first visit to Advanced Allergy and Asthma of Virginia

On your first visit Dr. Feinstein or Dr Sigman will review your history, focusing on your main concerns. This is followed by a detailed physical examination and diagnostic skin testing which will allow your doctor to make an accurate diagnosis. Generally, the skin testing for allergies is done on the first visit. Skin testing consists of pricking the skin and is not painful but it may cause mild itching.

Pulmonary function testing called spirometry is also necessary if you have lower respiratory symptoms such as chronic cough, shortness of breath or wheezing. Pulmonary function tests are necessary to make an accurate diagnosis of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD.

Please allow 90 minutes for the first visit (not including initial paperwork) after which you will be given the diagnosis and initial treatment plan. A follow up visit will be set up to go over results of initial treatment.

Antihistamines should be stopped 2- 3 days prior to first visit. Antihistamines include: Zyrtec, Allegra, loratadine ( Claritin), levo-cetirizine, Benedryl (dyphenhydramine), and chlorpheniramine. You should, however, continue all asthma medications as well as medications for other medical conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

What to bring for your initial visit:

• Your current insurance card.
• Drivers license or other picture identification
• Your co-pay as required by your insurance carrier
• Parent or guardian if you are less than 18 years of age
• Physician referral forms (if required by your insurance).