What to Expect at Your First Visit with an Allergist in Arlington, VA

To help us make your first visit as effective and efficient as possible, we recommend gathering a few important items and details ahead of your appointment:

• Medication List: Please bring a complete list of all medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, as well as any vitamins or supplements. This allows our providers to evaluate your medical history and avoid any potential medication interactions.

• Symptom History: Document your symptoms thoroughly. Make note of when your symptoms began, how frequently they occur, and any patterns you have noticed—such as triggers that make them better or worse. If you have kept a symptom diary, please bring it with you, as this can provide valuable insight for our team.

• Previous Reactions and Treatments: If you have experienced allergic or immune-related reactions in the past, try to recall and write down what you were exposed to, the symptoms you experienced, how quickly they appeared, what treatments you tried, and how long each episode lasted.

• Relevant Medical Records: Bring any previous medical records related to allergies, immune disorders, or asthma—including lab results, diagnostic testing, or records from hospital or emergency room visits. If you have already seen another specialist or your primary care provider about your symptoms, bringing those notes or referrals is very helpful.

• Insurance and Identification: Please bring your insurance card and a photo ID for registration and billing. If your insurance plan requires a referral to see a specialist, ensure you have that documentation with you.

• Food Allergies or Suspicions: If you suspect a food allergy, consider bringing packaging or ingredient lists for foods that may have triggered symptoms. This information can help guide your evaluation.

• Questions and Concerns: We encourage you to write down any questions or concerns you have, so you remember to discuss them with your Amerimmune Clinic provider during your visit.

During your first visit, our experienced providers will conduct a detailed review of your health background and discuss your symptoms in depth. A physical examination will be performed, and—depending on your individual needs—we may recommend or perform diagnostic tests, such as skin prick testing, blood tests, or pulmonary function testing. These tests help us identify specific allergens or underlying immune-related conditions that may be affecting your health.

We believe that this extended appointment time is essential for developing an accurate diagnosis and creating a personalized care plan. Our team will explain possible causes of your symptoms and outline next steps for management or treatment. If diagnostic tests are completed during your visit, you may need to allow additional time for results and interpretation.

To ensure you receive the most thorough care, we recommend planning for your first appointment at Amerimmune Clinic to take approximately one to one-and-a-half hours.

During your initial visit, our specialists will carefully review your medical history, symptoms, and potential triggers. Based on your unique needs, we may recommend one or more of the following allergy tests:

• Skin Prick Testing
One of the most common methods we use is the skin prick test. Small drops of potential allergens are placed on your forearm or back. If you are allergic to a particular substance, a small raised bump (similar to a mosquito bite) will typically appear within 15 to 20 minutes.

• Blood Tests (Specific IgE Antibody Testing)
In some cases, especially if you have a skin condition, are taking medications that could interfere with skin testing, or are at increased risk for a severe reaction, our team may order a blood test, such as a specific IgE antibody test (also known as ImmunoCAP). This test measures your immune system’s response to specific allergens.

• Patch Testing
To diagnose contact allergies, such as those caused by metals, fragrances, or other substances, we may recommend patch testing. Small patches containing various allergens are applied to your skin—usually on your back—and left in place for 48 hours to monitor for delayed allergic reactions.

Start by asking our experts about which specific allergies you may have and how we diagnose them at Amerimmune Clinic. Our providers utilize advanced diagnostic tools—including skin prick testing, blood tests, and comprehensive immune evaluations—to identify your sensitivities and tailor a precise treatment plan for you.

Be sure to inquire about your symptom triggers and how to avoid them in your daily routine. Our clinicians can offer guidance on environmental controls, dietary modifications, and lifestyle adjustments to help reduce your exposure to allergens. It’s also important to understand which symptoms are common and which might indicate a serious allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention—our staff will review these signs with you and ensure you know when to seek help.

Discussing available treatment options is essential. At Amerimmune Clinic, we offer a range of therapies, from medications and immunotherapy (such as allergy shots) to cutting-edge approaches for complex immune-related conditions. Our goal is to help you find the best strategies for long-term allergy and immune health management.

You may also want to ask how your allergies could change over time, and whether there’s a chance of developing new sensitivities or outgrowing existing ones. If you have related conditions—like asthma, eczema, or other immune concerns—our integrated care approach ensures these are managed together for the best possible outcomes.

Finally, ask our team for specific recommendations on minimizing allergen exposure at home, work, or school, and review what to do in an emergency situation. By addressing these questions with your Amerimmune Clinic provider, you’ll be well-equipped to manage your allergies and immune health with confidence. We look forward to working with you as partners in your care.

At Amerimmune Clinic, we understand that your first visit to an allergist is an important step toward better health. Led by Dr. Oral Alpan, MD, a board-certified immunologist with over 40 years of experience, our team focuses on providing personalized care from the moment you walk through the door. Dr. Alpan is dedicated to using his expertise to provide a comprehensive evaluation, ensuring your treatment plan is customized to your specific allergy needs. During your initial consultation, Dr. Alpan will take the time to fully understand your symptoms and medical history, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools to ensure the best possible outcomes. With his extensive experience and a patient-centered approach, Amerimmune Clinic make sure that every visit is comfortable, thorough, and effective.
 
At Amerimmune Clinic, our specialists provide you with a thorough evaluation and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 1600 Wilson Blvd, Suite A #320, Arlington, VA 22209. We serve patients from Arlington VA, Falls Church VA, Alexandria VA, McLean VA, Annandale VA, and surrounding areas.