Testing for allergies in Calgary

[CapnCrunch]

Has anyone gotten tested for allergies in Calgary recently?
Our little guy has developed a pretty constant plugged/runny nose and sneezing over the past few months, around the same time he started crawling around the floors in the house. All hardwood floors, that are roomba'd every 2 days, then vacuumed/ and mopped weekly, but there is still some pet hair on the floor most of the time.

We have 2 dogs (one sheds) and a cat, so I'd like him to get tested for allergies to our animals just to rule it out. I just have no clue where to start. Do I just take him to his doctor? Or a specialist?

[megavolt]

Doctor usually refers you to a specialist.

[Pacman]

It's usually a very long wait for testing (can be up to 12 months) as there are only a few doctors in town that do it.

As mentioned, you will need a referral from your primary care physician to see the specialist.

Here is a list of the immunology docs that specialise in allergy. Some of these will sub specialise in pediatrics:

http://www.cpsa.ab.ca/PhysicianSearch/SearchResults.aspx?City=calgary&sFlag=Y&Specialty=Clinical%20Immunology%20%26%20Allergy

[DeeK]

Doctor referred me to a specialist and had a 9 month wait to see him. Then because my allergies were seasonal, I had to wait another 9 months till allergy season kicked back in.

[Speed_69]

When I went, it was years ago but I also was referred by my doctor to a specialist and the wait was 6 months.

[CapnCrunch]

Wow, that sucks. Can a naturopath do the same testing?

[89s1]

Originally posted by CapnCrunch
Wow, that sucks. Can a naturopath do the same testing?

It's worse than you think.

Most of these guys are talking about getting tested as adults.

We were told the wait could be up to 24 months for a pediatric allergy specialist.


We got our daughter on the list as soon as we noticed a rash around her mouth from certain foods. This was when she was just starting on solid foods around a year ago now.

Our appointment is in october, she'll be two in a couple weeks :nut:

[DENZILDON]

If your doctor recommends you as an urgent test then you may get it sooner. It all depends on the severity and frequency of the allergy.

btw, request for the blood test. It's more precise and will give you exactly what your kid is allergic to.