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, medications and food.

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

Who do we serve?

  • Patients 8 years of age and older

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.
  3. Stop all antihistamines (Reactine, Benadryl, etc.) at least 48 hours before your appointment.

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.
  • The physician may perform an allergy test during your visit.

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 visit.
  • 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 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.

Business hours

Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (except public holidays)

Telephone

613-632-1111, extension 52201
Toll-free: 1-800-790-8870, extension 52201

Fax

613-636-6175

Address

HGH – Main Campus
1111 Ghislain Street
Hawkesbury, ON K6A 3G5

The Allergy Clinic is part of the Ambulatory Clinics located in Block B, level 1. View a hospital plan.

For allergy alerts and information to help you live with confidence with food allergies, visit Food Allergy Canada.

For information on the prevention, research, optimal treatment, and cure for Canadians living with allergy, asthma and immunologic diseases, visit Canadian Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Foundation.

Referring a patient to HGH Allergy Clinic

Medical Specialist

Referral Form

To refer a patient, please use the Ocean Network or download the Consultation Request Form, fill it out and fax it to 613-636-6175.

Appointment booking line: 1-800-790-8870, extension 82500

The Hawkesbury and District General Hospital (HGH) provides more than 40 specialized medical clinics for residents of Prescott-Russell and surrounding region. For a list of clinics, departments and services, visit Refer a patient.