Allergy Clinic

An allergy is a disorder of the immune system, which is responsible for defending your body against germs and harmful substances. An allergic reaction occurs when your immune system defends against substances that typically do not pose a threat to the human body. These substances are known as an allergen, and the most common are pollen, dust, insect bites, pets, chemicals, medicine and food.

You can inhale, eat or touch allergens that cause reactions ranging from mild to severe and include symptoms such as swelling, coughing, skin irritation, pain, difficulty breathing, etc. The most severe reactions may be life threatening.

Who do we serve?

  • Adults and children

How do we help our patients?

The allergist – a physician specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies – provides consultations and testing for:

  • Food allergies
  • Medication allergies
  • Environmental allergies

How to access our services?

You must have a referral from your physician to book an appointment at the Allergy Clinic.

About The Program

Before your appointment

  1. Your physician will fax us a request.
  2. We will call you to schedule an appointment. It may take a few weeks or up to several months before we call you, depending on the specialists’ availability.

What to bring

  • Valid Health Card
  • List of all your medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, supplements and herbal medicines

When you arrive

  • Please use the Main Entrance and register at one of the self-serve kiosks at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Clerks are available to help with the registration process.
  • Upon registering, take a “puck”. It will buzz and light up when your turn comes up and indicate in which room to report.
  • Room numbers and other public interest messages are presented on the TV screens.

About allergy tests

  • The physician uses allergy tests to detect if you have antibodies to specific allergens. The skin prick test is the most commonly used test.

How is the skin prick test performed?

  • The physician places small drops on your arm and then uses a special needle to prick microscopic punctures in your skin.
  • The test gives very accurate results for inhaled allergens, food and certain medications.
  • Usually, 20 allergens or less are tested in one test.
  • The skin prick test is not painful. It feels like a tiny insect bite.
  • After a test, you have to wait about 20 minutes for test results.
  • The physician will determine if you have allergies, and develop a treatment plan when appropriate.
  • Plan approximately 20 minutes for the consutlation, testing and results.

Any restrictions after the test?

  • There are no restrictions. You may leave the clinic after your test results and drive a vehicle. You do not need to be accompanied.
  • The redness on your arm will disappear within two hours.