Before a patient visits a doctor, there are several things that he/she needs to do to prepare for the visit.  The patient should be told what to expect and what to bring to the office at the time they schedule the visit.  

First, patients should bring a list of all their medications, dosages and when they are supposed to take them.  Even better, they should bring the medications with them.  Remember, medications are not just prescription drugs but also eye drops, ointments and medications bought over-the-counter.  Some eye drops can contain beta-blockers and can cause serious reactions during allergy testing and many over-the-counter medications were prescription drugs just a few years ago.  Antihistamine usage can also cause false positive results in an allergy test.  It is not uncommon after a negative allergy test for patients to remember a single over-the-counter cold pill that they took which upon closer examination contained an antihistamine. 

In addition, patients should know their prescription and over-the-counter drug allergies.  This is very important.  Many medications may cross-react and lead to dangerous complications if used together. 

Patients should bring all X-rays and results of all recent laboratory tests to the office.  If they have had recent sinus X-rays, blood tests or allergy tests bring the results and X-rays to the office.  This information will be needed in evaluating and treating their case.  If the doctor has to get this information after the patient visit, it may delay the beginning of treatment and may be an added expense.