Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where are you located?

  Chattanooga Allergy Clinic has nine total locations. Find out more information about each Chattanooga Allergy Clinic locations.

• Do you offer pediatric care?

  Yes, Chattanooga Allergy Clinic offers adult and pediatric care. Our team of board certified doctors can treat all ages from infants to senior patients.

• What is an allergy?

  One of the marvels of the human body is that it can defend itself against harmful invaders such as viruses or bacteria. In some people, the body reacts to harmless substances such as dust, mold or pollen by producing an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE). When patients with one of the allergic diseases (such as rhinitis or asthma) are exposed to these substances, the immune system then rallies its defenses, launching a host of complex chemical weapons to attack and destroy the supposed enemy. In the process, some unpleasant and, in extreme cases, life-threatening symptoms may be experienced.

  Read more about allergies and the services provided Chattanooga Allergy Clinic.

• What is a food allergy?

  A food allergy is when the body's immune system reacts unusually to specific foods. Although allergic reactions are often mild, they can be very serious. Symptoms of a food allergy can affect different areas of the body at the same time.

  Read more about food allergies and the services provided Chattanooga Allergy Clinic.

• What is asthma?

  Asthma is a chronic, inflammatory lung disease characterized by recurrent breathing problems. People with asthma have acute episodes when the air passages in their lungs get narrower, and breathing becomes more difficult.

  The problem is an oversensitivity of the lungs and airways, which overreact to certain "triggers" and become inflamed and clogged.

  Read more about asthma and the services provided Chattanooga Allergy Clinic.

• What is sinusitis?

  Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, which are cavities, or air-filled pockets, near the nasal passage. It usually occurs after a cold or an allergic inflammation.

  Read more about sinuses and sinusitis and the services provided Chattanooga Allergy Clinic.

• What is a skin test?

  A skin test is a simple procedure that is best described as tiny scratches made on the surface of the skin on your back. The scratches are conducted with a small instrument similar to a plastic toothpick, which contains trace amounts of a single allergen. If you are allergic to a substance, a small mosquito bite-like bump will appear. For those patients who do not react to this type of skin test, an intradermal process may be performed. The allergist can determine your unique allergy profile and the severity of your allergies based on the results of the skin test. Because everyone has specific allergic triggers, knowing what you are allergic to is important for effective treatment.
  

• What is a Board Certified Allergist?

  Board certified allergists are specialists who have met the highest level of nationally-recognized standards for education and expertise in the field of allergy, asthma and immunology.

• What are your hours of operation?

  Chattanooga Allergy Clinic has nine convenient locations with varying clinic and shot hours. Click the location below to see the hours of operation for a specific location.

  Lee Hwy Office

  Hixson Office

  Cleveland Office

  Ft. Oglethorpe Office

  Downtown Chattanooga Office

  Dalton Office

  Dayton Office

  Jasper Office

  Ooltewah Office

• Where can I find shot hours?

  Shot hours vary by location and day. Click the location below to see the shot hours for a specific location.

  Lee Hwy Office

  Hixson Office

  Cleveland Office

  Ft. Oglethorpe Office

  Downtown Chattanooga Office

  Dalton Office

  Dayton Office

  Jasper Office

  Ooltewah Office

• Who are the doctors?

  Marc W. Cromie, MD; Todd A. Levin, MD; Lee M. Perry, MD; Hyman Kaplan, MD; Jennifer Patel, MD; Jessica Van Mason, MD
  

  Read more about each doctor.

• What should I expect when I see an allergist?

  Your first visit to the allergist will take approximately two to three hours. You may be asked to stop taking antihistamines or other medications at least three full days prior to your visit. Some drugs may interfere with the results of your tests, and getting the most accurate results from your initial assessment is very important.

  The allergist will start by conducting a patient history including an analysis of your symptoms, a relevant physical exam, and a thorough environmental evaluation.
  The allergist will use this information to determine what additional tests and procedures may be required to identify and/or treat your condition.
  

  Once the allergist identifies the allergens that are causing your symptoms, a treatment plan can be recommended. These treatment plans include avoidance of allergens, medications, and/or allergy shots (immunotherapy ).