What happens when I come in?

Initially most people will be attending an allergy and immunology clinic.

These are held regularly across the region. For fuether information, see our diagnosis and treatment| section for clinic details.

At the clinics you will be assessed, tested and diagnosed by a team of people, including consultants, specialist registrars and specialist nurses. In the case of food allergies, there may also be a dietician present. For certain tests you may be asked not to take antihistamines before your appointment (you will be notified if this is required).

In some cases, for drug and food challenges, you may be required to attend a day ward.

After your diagnosis a plan will be drawn up for you to manage your condition at home.

Specialist nurses will help you understand your results, answer any questions and will also offer advice and training in the use of any drugs such as inhalers or adrenaline (epi) pens.

However, in some cases home treatment is not suitable and treatment will have to be administered at follow-up day wards such as desensitisation or immunoglobulin infusions.

You will be told how often you need to attend day wards (for some people it is weekly but generally it is monthly) and should allow three to four hours for your appointment.

The day wards are led by specialist nurses who will look after you and carry out your treatment.