Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

• Patient Advisory: Blue Cross Blue Shield Networks

  It has come to our attention that Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) recently sent an erroneous letter to its members, incorrectly stating that our providers are no longer participating in their network(s). Please be assured that this is a mistake. All of our providers remain in-network and participate in all lines of business with BCBS.

  Should you have concerns or confusion about this letter, please know that the letter was, indeed, sent in error and that your care with our providers will not be affected. Rest assured that you can continue to see your providers as usual.

  Should you have questions or require further clarification, please feel free to contact us at 423-899-0431. We are here to help and are committed to ensuring your care continues without interruption.

• Where are you located?

  Chattanooga Allergy Clinic has eight total locations around Chattanooga and North Georgia.

  Click here for more information about each Chattanooga Allergy Clinic locations.

• What are your hours of operation?

  Chattanooga Allergy Clinic offers eight convenient locations throughout Chattanooga and North Georgia, with clinic hours and allergy shot hours varying by location.

  Please select a location below to view office hours, shot hours, and directions for that specific office.

  Lee Hwy Office

  Hixson Office

  Cleveland Office

  Ringgold Office

  Downtown Chattanooga 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

  Ringgold Office

  Downtown Chattanooga Office

  Dayton Office

  Jasper Office

  Ooltewah Office

• Who are the doctors?

  All Chattanooga Allergy Clinic physicians are double board-certified specialists in Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, with extensive experience caring for children and adults throughout Tennessee and Georgia. They are:

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

• Do you offer pediatric care?

  Yes. Chattanooga Allergy Clinic provides comprehensive pediatric and adult allergy, asthma, and immunology care. Our board-certified allergy specialists treat patients of all ages, from infants and young children to teens, adults, and seniors, across all of our convenient Greater Chattanooga, East Tennessee, and North Georgia clinic locations.

  We routinely diagnose and treat a wide range of pediatric conditions, including:

  • Childhood Asthma: Chronic coughing, nighttime wheezing, and respiratory struggles.

  • Pediatric Food Allergies: Management plans for the most common food allergens, Alpha-gal syndrome, and in-office Oral Food Challenges.

  • Skin Conditions: Childhood eczema (atopic dermatitis) and unexplained hives.

  • Environmental Allergies: Seasonal allergic rhinitis, pet dander sensitivities, and recurrent sinus problems.

  • Immune Disorders: Clinical evaluation for primary immunodeficiencies and frequent infections.

• When should my child see an allergist?

  Children should see an allergist when allergy or asthma symptoms become frequent, persistent, difficult to control, or begin to interfere with daily activities, restorative sleep quality, or school performance.

  Signs your child may benefit from an expert evaluation at Chattanooga Allergy Clinic include:

  • Respiratory & Asthma Signs: Chronic coughing (especially at night or during physical play), persistent wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness.

  • Nasal & Sinus Symptoms: Frequent sneezing, severe nasal congestion, a constant runny nose, or recurring sinus and ear infections that don't seem to clear

  • Skin Conditions: Widespread eczema (atopic dermatitis), persistent skin rashes, unexplained hives, or sudden swelling.

  • Dietary & Environmental Triggers: Immediate physical reactions to suspected foods, or symptoms that visibly worsen during specific seasons or around family pets, pollen, and other environmental triggers.

  Early diagnosis and personalized treatment by a board-certified specialist can drastically improve daily symptoms, reduce missed school days, restore deep sleep, and prevent mild childhood respiratory issues from developing into more severe asthma over time. Chattanooga Allergy Clinic provides this highly specialized allergy, asthma, and immunology care tailored specifically for infants, children, teens, and adults.

• What should I expect during my first visit to the allergist?

  Your initial appointment at Chattanooga Allergy Clinic typically lasts two to three hours. Before your visit, you may be asked to stop taking antihistamines or certain other medications for several days, since some medications can interfere with allergy testing results.

  During your appointment, your allergist will:

  • Review your medical history and symptoms

  • Discuss possible allergy triggers and environmental exposures

  • Perform a focused physical examination

  • Recommend allergy testing or additional evaluations if needed

  Based on your symptoms and test results, your allergist will develop a personalized treatment plan that may include:

  • Allergen avoidance strategies

  • Medications

  • Allergy shots (immunotherapy)

  • Additional treatment options for asthma, food allergies, or related conditions

  Our goal is to help identify the cause of your symptoms and create a treatment plan that improves your long-term health and quality of life.

• How long does allergy testing take?

  A comprehensive new patient allergy evaluation and testing appointment at Chattanooga Allergy Clinic typically takes about two to three hours. This thorough timeframe ensures our board-certified allergists have ample time to review your complete medical history, discuss your symptom patterns, perform a physical examination, and safely administer and interpret the appropriate tests.

  The diagnostic process and timeline include:

  • Instant Skin Test Results: The actual skin prick testing procedure is rapid, and your results are available within 15 to 20 minutes during that same appointment. Your allergist will review the localized reactions with you immediately.

  • Supplemental Testing: If your clinical history requires further investigation, your physician may order advanced blood testing panels or schedule specialized follow-up evaluations, such as a monitored oral food challenge.

  • Important Pre-Appointment Preparation: Because certain medications can suppress your body's natural allergic response and interfere with testing accuracy, patients must temporarily discontinue taking oral antihistamines and specific over-the-counter allergy medications prior to arrival.

  Please review our dedicated Skin Testing Instructions sheet below here on our resources page for the exact list of medications to pause before your visit.

• Does allergy testing hurt?

  No, allergy skin testing is not considered painful. It is quick, safe, and exceptionally well-tolerated by patients of all ages, including infants and young children.

  Here is exactly what you or your child can expect during a testing appointment at Chattanooga Allergy Clinic:

  • The Sensation: Standard skin prick testing does not use needles or syringes. Instead, trace amounts of allergen proteins are applied to the very top layer of the skin using a tiny, specialized plastic device that feels similar to a small plastic toothpick. Most patients describe the sensation as a light scratch, tickle, or minor irritation rather than actual pain.

  • The Allergic Reaction: If you are allergic to a tested substance, your skin will form a small, raised, red bump (called a wheal) that looks and feels exactly like a mosquito bite. These spots appear within 15 to 20 minutes.

  • Managing the Itch: While a positive test reaction can become itchy for a short period, this is a normal, temporary sign that helps our team accurately map your triggers. The peak itchiness typically subsides within 10 to 15 minutes, and our clinical staff can apply a soothing topical cream immediately after the results are measured to quickly cool and calm the skin.

  For our youngest patients, testing is typically performed on the upper back so they cannot see or accidentally scratch the area. Our compassionate pediatric allergy team uses proven distraction techniques to make the entire process comfortable, gentle, and completely stress-free.

• What is an allergy?

  An allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly reacts to a normally harmless substance, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, foods, or medications, as though it were dangerous.

  In people with allergies, the body produces allergy antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). When exposed to the allergen again, the immune system releases chemicals such as histamine that trigger allergy symptoms.

  Common allergy symptoms include:

  • Respiratory: Sneezing, congestion, coughing, and wheezing.

  • Visual & Skin: Itchy eyes, rashes, localized swelling.

  • Digestive: Gastrointestinal or digestive problems (frequent in food allergies).

  In some cases, allergic reactions can become severe and lead to life-threatening anaphylaxis.

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

• What Is the difference between allergies and a cold?

  Allergies and colds can share many of the same symptoms, including sneezing, congestion, coughing, and a runny nose, but there are several important differences.

  Allergies are caused by the immune system reacting to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander. Colds are caused by viruses and are contagious.

  Common signs of allergies include:

  • Itchy eyes, nose, or throat

  • Clear nasal drainage

  • Symptoms that occur during certain seasons or around specific triggers

  • Symptoms lasting for weeks or months

  Common signs of a cold include:

  • Fever or body aches

  • Thick yellow or green mucus

  • Symptoms that improve within 7 to 10 days

  • Sore throat or fatigue related to infection

• Can adults develop allergies later in life?

  Yes. Allergies can develop at any age, even in adults who have never had allergy symptoms before. Environmental allergies, food allergies, asthma, and medication allergies may first appear during adulthood.

  New allergy symptoms can develop for many reasons, including changes in environment, exposure to new allergens, hormonal changes, infections, or changes in the immune system over time.

  Common adult allergy symptoms may include:

  • Sneezing and nasal congestion

  • Chronic sinus problems

  • Itchy or watery eyes

  • Coughing or wheezing

  • Skin rashes or hives

  • Reactions to foods or medications

  Because allergy symptoms can overlap with sinus infections, colds, asthma, or other conditions, evaluation by a board-certified allergist can help identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.

• What is the Allergic March?

  The Allergic March, also called the Atopic March, describes the progression of allergic diseases that often develop during childhood. Many children begin with eczema or food allergies during infancy and may later develop seasonal allergies, allergic rhinitis, and asthma as they grow older.

  The Allergic March commonly follows this pattern:

  • Eczema (atopic dermatitis) in infancy

  • Food allergies in early childhood

  • Seasonal allergies or allergic rhinitis

  • Asthma symptoms later in childhood

  Not every child follows the same pattern, but these allergic conditions are often closely connected through the immune system.

  Children with eczema or food allergies may have a higher risk of developing asthma or environmental allergies later in life. Early evaluation and treatment by a board-certified allergist may help identify triggers, improve symptom control, and potentially reduce progression of allergic disease over time.

  Common symptoms associated with the Allergic March may include:

  • Dry, itchy skin or eczema

  • Food allergic reactions

  • Chronic nasal congestion or sneezing

  • Seasonal allergy symptoms

  • Wheezing, coughing, or asthma flare-ups

  Understanding the Allergic March can help families recognize symptoms early and develop a personalized treatment plan for long-term allergy and asthma management.

• Can allergies cause fatigue?

  Yes. Allergies can cause fatigue and daytime tiredness, especially when symptoms interfere with sleep or breathing. Nasal congestion, postnasal drip, coughing, and sinus pressure can make it difficult to get restful sleep, leading to exhaustion during the day.

  Inflammation caused by allergic reactions may also contribute to feelings of fatigue or brain fog in some patients.

  Seasonal allergies, chronic sinus inflammation, and uncontrolled asthma are common causes of allergy-related fatigue. Identifying and treating allergy triggers can often help improve sleep quality, energy levels, and overall quality of life.

• Why are allergies so bad in the Tennessee Valley?

  The Tennessee Valley is known for having long and intense allergy seasons due to a combination of climate, geography, and high pollen levels. Chattanooga and the surrounding region experience a wide variety of allergy triggers throughout much of the year, including tree pollen in the spring, grass pollen in the summer, and weed pollen in the fall.

  The valley’s geography can also contribute to allergy problems. Surrounded by mountains and ridges, the area may trap pollen, mold spores, humidity, and air pollutants, allowing allergens to linger in the air longer.

  Other factors that can worsen allergy symptoms in the Tennessee Valley include:

  • Mild winters that allow pollen seasons to begin earlier

  • High humidity levels that promote mold growth

  • Frequent weather and temperature changes

  • Heavy rainfall followed by rapid plant growth

  • Long growing seasons common throughout the Southeast

  Common allergy symptoms in the region include sneezing, congestion, sinus pressure, postnasal drip, itchy eyes, coughing, fatigue, and asthma flare-ups.

  Because allergy triggers can vary throughout the year, evaluation by a board-certified allergist can help identify your specific triggers and develop a personalized treatment plan to help control symptoms year-round.

• When is allergy season in Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley?

  Allergy season in Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley can last nearly year-round due to the region’s mild climate, long growing seasons, high humidity, and abundant tree and plant life.

  Different allergens tend to peak during different times of the year:

  Spring Allergy Season

  Spring allergies are commonly triggered by tree pollen, including:

  • Oak

  • Maple

  • Birch

  • Cedar

  • Hickory

  Tree pollen levels in the Tennessee Valley are often highest from late February through May.

  Summer Allergy Season

  During the summer months, grass pollen becomes a common trigger. Bermuda grass, Timothy grass, and other regional grasses may cause symptoms from late spring through early fall.

  Fall Allergy Season

  Fall allergies are most commonly caused by weed pollens, especially ragweed. Ragweed season in Tennessee and North Georgia typically peaks from August through October.

  Year-Round Allergies

  Indoor allergens can cause symptoms throughout the year and may include:

  • Dust mites

  • Mold

  • Pet dander

  • Cockroach allergens

  The Tennessee Valley’s humidity can also contribute to increased mold growth and worsen allergy and asthma symptoms.

  Common seasonal allergy symptoms may include:

  • Sneezing

  • Nasal congestion

  • Runny nose

  • Itchy or watery eyes

  • Postnasal drip

  • Coughing

  • Sinus pressure

  • Asthma flare-ups

  Because allergy triggers can vary throughout the year, evaluation by a board-certified allergist can help identify your specific triggers and develop a personalized treatment plan.

• What is asthma?

  Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making breathing more difficult. People with asthma may experience recurring symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

  Asthma symptoms are often triggered when the lungs and airways overreact to irritants or allergens such as pollen, respiratory infections, exercise, smoke, weather changes, or strong odors. This can cause swelling, increased mucus production, and tightening of the muscles surrounding the airways.

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

• What is sinusitis?

  Sinusitis is inflammation or swelling of the sinuses, which are air-filled spaces located around the nose and nasal passages. Sinusitis commonly develops after a cold, respiratory infection, or allergic inflammation.

  When the sinuses become inflamed, mucus may not drain properly, leading to symptoms such as facial pressure, nasal congestion, thick drainage, headaches, coughing, and sinus pain.

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

• What is a food allergy?

  A food allergy occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly reacts to a specific food as though it were harmful. Even a small amount of the food can trigger an allergic reaction.

  Food allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe and may affect multiple parts of the body at the same time. Reactions may include hives, swelling, digestive problems, coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis.

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

• What is Alpha-gal syndrome?

  Alpha-gal syndrome is a type of food allergy triggered by a bite from the Lone Star tick. Unlike most food allergies, alpha-gal syndrome can cause a delayed allergic reaction several hours after eating red meat or other mammal-derived products.

  Common foods that may trigger symptoms include:

  • Beef

  • Pork

  • Lamb

  • Venison

  • Other mammalian meat products

  Symptoms can vary from person to person and may include:

  • Hives or itching

  • Stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhea

  • Swelling

  • Shortness of breath

  • Dizziness

  • Anaphylaxis

  Because reactions are often delayed by several hours, alpha-gal syndrome can sometimes be difficult to recognize or diagnose. This condition has become increasingly common in Tennessee, Georgia, and other parts of the Southeast where Lone Star ticks are prevalent.

  Allergy testing and evaluation by a board-certified allergist can help determine whether alpha-gal syndrome may be causing your symptoms.

• What is a skin test?

  Allergy skin testing is a quick and minimally uncomfortable procedure used to help identify substances that may be triggering allergic symptoms. During the test, tiny amounts of specific allergens are placed on the skin, usually on the back or forearm, using a small plastic applicator.

  If you are allergic to a particular substance, a small raised bump similar to a mosquito bite may appear at the test site within about 15 to 20 minutes.

  In some cases, additional intradermal testing may be recommended if further evaluation is needed. The results help your allergist identify your specific allergy triggers and develop a personalized treatment plan.

  
  

• What is immunotherapy (allergy shots)?

  Allergy shots, also called allergen immunotherapy, are a long-term treatment designed to reduce sensitivity to allergens and help prevent allergy symptoms over time.

  Immunotherapy works by exposing the immune system to small, carefully controlled amounts of allergens such as:

  • Pollen

  • Dust mites

  • Mold

  • Pet dander

  • Insect venom

  Over time, the immune system becomes less reactive to these allergens, which may reduce symptoms and decrease the need for allergy medications.

  Allergy shots are commonly used to treat:

  • Seasonal allergies

  • Year-round environmental allergies

  • Allergic asthma

  • Insect sting allergies

  Treatment typically begins with a buildup phase involving more frequent injections, followed by a maintenance phase with injections spaced farther apart.

  Immunotherapy may help improve symptoms such as:

  • Sneezing

  • Nasal congestion

  • Runny nose

  • Itchy eyes

  • Coughing

  • Asthma flare-ups

  For many patients, allergy shots can provide long-term symptom relief and improved quality of life.

• What is a Board-Certified Allergist?

  A board-certified allergist is a specialized physician who has completed extensive, advanced medical training and met stringent, nationally recognized standards to expertly diagnose, treat, and manage allergies, asthma, and complex immunologic conditions.

  While many primary care doctors can treat basic allergy symptoms, a board-certified allergist possesses a deep level of specialized expertise.

  By choosing a board-certified specialist at Chattanooga Allergy Clinic, you are ensuring that your or your child's care is guided by an expert who possesses the highest level of medical credentialing available in the field