If you’ve finally booked an appointment with an allergist, that’s a big step — and it’s completely normal to feel a little nervous about what’s coming. Will there be needles? Will it hurt? What will they actually do?

The good news is that a first allergy appointment is usually much more straightforward than people expect. It’s mostly a conversation, followed by one or more tests, and then a plan. Here’s a calm, honest walkthrough of what to expect from start to finish.

Before You Go for Your First Allergy Appointment: What to Prepare

Coming prepared to your first appointment makes a real difference — both for your comfort and for the accuracy of your results. Here’s what to bring or think about before your first allergy appointment:

Stop antihistamines in advance

If you’re taking antihistamines — including over-the-counter options like cetirizine, loratadine, or fexofenadine — you may need to stop them 3–7 days before your appointment. Antihistamines suppress your body’s allergic response, which can interfere with skin prick test results. Your allergist’s rooms will confirm the exact requirement when you book.

Keep a symptom diary

Try to track your symptoms in the week or two leading up to your appointment. Note when they happen, how severe they are, what you were eating or doing at the time, and whether anything seems to make them better or worse. This information is genuinely useful to your allergist.

List your current medications before Your First Allergy Appointment

Bring a complete list of all medications you’re currently taking — prescription, over-the-counter, and supplements. Some medications can affect test results or need to be considered when recommending treatment.

Think through your history

Your allergist will ask about your family history, previous reactions, living environment, and diet. It’s worth thinking through these in advance rather than trying to recall everything on the spot.

💡  Tip: Take a photo of your medication boxes on your phone rather than trying to remember the exact names. It’s much quicker to show the screen than to spell out drug names from memory.

At the Appointment: Step by Step

Step 1: The Medical History

Your allergist will start by asking you a lot of questions. This is the most important part of the appointment — so don’t rush through it or downplay symptoms you’ve been managing on your own.

Expect questions like:

• What symptoms are you experiencing, and when did they start?

• Do your symptoms occur at certain times of year, or all year round?

• Are there specific foods, environments, or activities that seem to trigger them?

• Do you have a history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever?

• Does anyone in your immediate family have allergies?

• What have you tried so far — and has anything helped?

Be honest and thorough. Your allergist needs the full picture to make accurate recommendations.

Step 2: Physical Examination

Depending on your symptoms, your allergist may examine your skin, eyes, nose, throat, or chest. For skin-related issues, they’ll look at the affected areas. For respiratory symptoms, they may listen to your breathing or assess nasal passages.

This isn’t always a lengthy process — it’s usually targeted at what’s relevant to your specific concerns.

Step 3: Allergy Testing

Based on your history and examination, your allergist will recommend one or more tests. The most common at a first appointment are:

• A skin prick test — results in 15–20 minutes, done right there in the rooms

• A referral for a specific IgE blood test — done at a pathology lab, results in a few days

If you’re being tested for contact allergies (like a rash from jewellery or cosmetics), you may be referred for a patch test, which is usually done at a follow-up appointment.

For a full explanation of each test type, see our guide: Types of Allergy Tests Explained.

Step 4: Discussing Your Results

If a skin prick test was done, your allergist will review the results with you before you leave. They’ll explain which allergens showed a positive reaction, what that means in practical terms, and whether the results align with your reported symptoms.

Not every positive result means you need to make drastic changes. Your allergist will help you interpret the results in context — a mild sensitivity to one pollen type, for instance, may not require any specific treatment beyond a seasonal antihistamine.

Step 5: Your Management Plan

By the end of the appointment, you should leave with a clear plan. Depending on what’s found, this might include:

• Avoidance strategies — specific foods, environments, or substances to avoid

• Medication — antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops, or an EpiPen if there’s a risk of anaphylaxis

• Immunotherapy — a referral for allergy shots or sublingual drops if appropriate

• A follow-up appointment — to review blood test results or begin treatment

Don’t leave without understanding what happens next. If anything is unclear, ask before you go.

What If the Tests Come Back Negative?

A negative result doesn’t always mean the problem is solved — it means the specific allergens tested weren’t the cause. If your symptoms persist, your allergist may order further tests, investigate other conditions (like intolerances or non-allergic rhinitis), or refer you to another specialist.

Allergy diagnosis can sometimes be a process of elimination rather than a single definitive answer. That’s normal — and a good allergist will work with you until you have clarity.

How Long Does a First Allergy Appointment Take?

Most first allergy appointments take between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on how complex your history is and what tests are being done. If a skin prick test is included, factor in the 20-minute wait time for results.

It’s worth arriving a few minutes early to complete any intake forms, and avoid rushing off straight afterwards — give yourself time to absorb everything you’ve heard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I bring someone with me to my first allergy appointment?

It can help to bring a trusted person for your first allergy appointment — particularly if you’re going with a child, or if you’re anxious and might struggle to retain information while managing your nerves. A second set of ears is always useful at a medical appointment.

What should I wear to my allergy testing appointment?

Wear short sleeves or a loose top that can be rolled up easily. Skin prick tests are usually done on the forearm, so you’ll want easy access. Avoid applying heavy creams or lotions to your arms on the day of the test.

Can I eat normally before my allergy appointment?

For most allergy tests, yes. The exception is an oral food challenge, where specific fasting instructions will be given in advance. For skin prick and blood tests, eating normally is fine.

Will I get my results on the same day?

Skin prick test results are available within 20 minutes and will be discussed during your appointment. Blood test (IgE) results take 3–7 days. Your allergist will follow up with you once they’re available.

What if I’m too nervous to go alone?

Bring someone with you — there’s no rule that says you have to face it alone. Let the reception team know if you’re anxious, and don’t hesitate to tell your allergist. They see anxious patients every day and will adjust their approach accordingly.

The Bottom Line

Your first allergy appointment is a conversation first, and a test second. The goal is for your allergist to understand your full picture — your symptoms, your history, your environment — and then work out the most likely cause.

Go prepared, be honest, and ask questions. You’ll leave with far more clarity than you arrived with — and that’s exactly what a first appointment should deliver.

One of the most common questions people have before booking an allergy test is a simple one: how much is this going to cost me?

It’s a fair question. Healthcare costs in South Africa can be difficult to navigate, especially when you’re not sure what your medical aid covers, whether you need a referral, or whether the test is even worth doing privately.

This guide gives you a realistic picture of allergy testing costs in South Africa — for both medical aid members and those paying out of pocket — so there are no surprises before your appointment.

What Affects the Cost of Allergy Testing?

The total cost of allergy testing depends on several factors:

• The type of test (skin prick, blood/IgE, patch test, or oral food challenge)

• How many allergens are being tested

• Whether you’re using a private allergist or a state clinic

• Your medical aid scheme and plan level

• The province and city you’re in — specialist fees can vary between Johannesburg, Cape Town, and other areas

• Whether a GP consultation is included or charged separately

Estimated Costs: Private Sector (Out of Pocket)

If you’re paying privately without medical aid — or if your scheme has exhausted your benefits — here are rough estimates of what you might pay. These figures are approximate and reflect 2025/2026 market rates for the private sector:

Test Type	Approx. Cost (Private)	Notes
Allergist consultation	R600 – R1,500	Varies by specialist and region
Skin prick test (panel)	R500 – R1,200	Cost increases with more allergens tested
Specific IgE blood test (per allergen)	R150 – R400 per allergen	Multi-allergen panels available
Patch test (standard panel)	R800 – R1,800	Includes 2–3 follow-up readings
Oral food challenge	R1,500 – R3,500+	Hospital/clinic supervision required

💡  These are estimates only. Always ask the practice for a quote before your appointment — and confirm whether the consultation fee is included in the testing cost or charged separately.

What Does Medical Aid for an Allergy Testing Cost Cover?

The good news: most major South African medical aid schemes cover allergy testing when it is medically necessary and referred by a registered doctor. However, the level of cover depends on your specific scheme and plan.

How medical aid billing typically works for allergy testing:

• Your GP or specialist submits a referral or motivating letter

• The allergist bills using ICD-10 diagnostic codes and NRPL/NHN tariff codes

• The claim is processed against your medical savings account (MSA) or risk benefits

• If your MSA is depleted, you may enter a self-payment gap before risk benefits kick in

Schemes known to cover allergy testing (subject to plan level):

• Discovery Health (Classic and Comprehensive plans typically offer good allergy cover)

• Bonitas

• Momentum Health

• Fedhealth

• Medihelp

It’s always worth calling your scheme’s authorisation line before your appointment. Ask specifically whether a skin prick test, blood test, or patch test requires pre-authorisation, and what the cover limit is.

Public Sector: State Allergy Clinics

If you don’t have medical aid, state allergy clinics offer allergy testing at significantly reduced cost or for free. The Allergy Foundation of South Africa (AFSA) maintains a list of state clinics across the country, including facilities in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban.

The trade-off is that waiting times at state clinics can be long, and the range of tests available may be more limited than at a private practice. However, for basic diagnosis — particularly for common allergens like food, dust, and pollen — state clinics are a very viable option.

Is Allergy Testing Worth the Cost?

For many people, the answer is yes — particularly if:

• You’ve been spending money on over-the-counter antihistamines or other medications without a clear diagnosis

• Your symptoms are affecting your work, sleep, or daily life

• You’re managing a child’s suspected food allergy and need certainty before making dietary restrictions

• You’ve had a severe reaction and need to know the cause to prevent it happening again

A proper diagnosis also means your treatment is targeted — which tends to be more cost-effective in the long run than managing symptoms blindly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral to see an allergist in South Africa?

Not always — many private allergists accept self-referrals. However, your medical aid may require a GP referral to authorise and cover the cost of the consultation and tests. Always check with your scheme first.

Can I claim allergy testing on my tax medical expenses?

Yes. Out-of-pocket medical expenses that are not covered by medical aid, including allergy testing, can be claimed as additional medical expenses on your South African tax return. Keep all receipts and statements.

Will allergy testing at a GP be cheaper than at an allergist?

A GP consultation will generally be cheaper, and some GPs can order basic IgE blood tests. However, for comprehensive testing and accurate interpretation of results, an allergist or clinical immunologist is the better investment.

Are there cheaper at-home allergy tests available?

At-home allergy kits are available online, but they are not considered clinically reliable in South Africa and are not recognised by medical aids. For an accurate, actionable diagnosis, a formal test performed or ordered by a qualified doctor is the right route.

The Bottom Line

Allergy testing in South Africa is generally affordable when you have medical aid, and still accessible through state clinics without it. The key is knowing what to ask before you book — about costs, medical aid cover, and what the test will actually check for.

If you’re unsure where to start, speak to your GP. They can point you in the right direction and help make sure you’re not paying for more than you need.

When your doctor mentions allergy testing, it’s easy to picture one generic test — a needle, some waiting, and a result. But allergy testing isn’t one-size-fits-all. There are several different types of allergy tests, each designed to identify different kinds of allergic reactions.

Understanding the options can help you feel more prepared, ask better questions at your appointment, and make sense of your results when they come back. Here’s a clear, jargon-free breakdown of the most common allergy tests used in South Africa.

1. Skin Prick Test

What it is

The skin prick test (also called a scratch test) is the most commonly used allergy test in South Africa. It’s quick, relatively painless, and can test for multiple allergens in a single session.

How it works

A small drop of allergen extract is placed on your forearm or upper back — there might be 10, 20, or more drops depending on what’s being tested. The skin beneath each drop is then lightly pricked with a tiny lancet. If you’re allergic to a particular substance, your skin will react with a small raised bump (called a wheal) within 15–20 minutes.

The size of the wheal helps your allergist determine the degree of sensitivity.

What it tests for

• Pollen (grass, tree, weed)

• Dust mites

• Pet dander (cats, dogs)

• Mould spores

• Common food allergens (peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, shellfish)

• Insect venom (bee, wasp)

Who it’s suitable for

Skin prick tests are suitable for most adults and children, including young babies in some cases. They are generally not recommended if you have severe eczema covering large areas of your arms, or if you cannot stop taking antihistamines before the test.

⚠️  Stop antihistamines 3–7 days before your skin prick test. They suppress your skin’s reaction and can lead to false negatives. Your allergist will confirm the exact timeline.

2. Specific IgE Blood Test (formerly called RAST)

What it is

A specific IgE blood test measures the levels of allergen-specific antibodies in your blood. When your immune system overreacts to a substance, it produces a type of antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE). High levels of IgE to a particular allergen confirm sensitisation.

How it works

A blood sample is taken — usually from a vein in your arm — and sent to a laboratory. Results typically take a few days to a week to come back. Unlike skin prick tests, this test is done in a lab rather than on your body, which means antihistamines don’t interfere with the results.

When doctors prefer a blood test over a skin prick test

• You have widespread eczema or psoriasis that makes skin testing difficult

• You can’t safely stop taking antihistamines or certain medications

• You’ve had a severe anaphylactic reaction and skin testing poses a risk

• Results from a skin prick test were unclear and need confirmation

• You’re a very young child where skin testing is impractical

What it tests for

Blood tests can test for most of the same allergens as skin prick tests, and are particularly useful for food, pollen, dust mite, and venom allergies.

3. Patch Test

What it is

A patch test is different from the other two — it’s used to identify contact allergies, also called allergic contact dermatitis. This is the type of reaction you get when your skin touches something it’s sensitive to: a metal, a fragrance, a preservative, or a cosmetic ingredient.

How it works

Small patches containing different allergens are applied to your upper back and left in place for 48 hours. You’ll return to the clinic after 48 hours for the patches to be removed, and again at 72–96 hours for a final reading. Any redness, swelling, or blistering under a patch indicates a positive reaction.

Common allergens tested in patch tests

• Nickel (found in jewellery, belt buckles, and zippers)

• Fragrances and perfumes

• Preservatives in cosmetics and skincare

• Rubber and latex

• Hair dye ingredients (such as PPD)

• Adhesives

Who it’s for

Patch testing is typically done by a dermatologist and is recommended when someone develops a recurring skin rash in areas that come into contact with specific objects — jewellery on the wrist or neck, for example, or a rash that appears wherever skincare products are applied.

4. Oral Food Challenge

What it is

An oral food challenge (OFC) is considered the gold standard for diagnosing food allergies. It involves consuming increasing amounts of a suspected food allergen under close medical supervision to confirm whether a true allergy exists.

How it works

The challenge is carried out in a clinical setting — usually a hospital or specialist clinic — where a medical team is on hand to monitor you and manage any reaction. You’ll be given very small amounts of the food to start, with doses gradually increasing over several hours. If no reaction occurs, the food allergy is ruled out.

When it’s used

• To confirm a suspected food allergy when skin and blood tests are inconclusive

• To check whether a child has outgrown a food allergy

• To reintroduce foods that were previously avoided

⚠️  An oral food challenge should never be attempted at home. It must be done under medical supervision with emergency medication readily available.

Which Test is Right for You?

Your allergist will recommend the most appropriate test based on your symptoms, medical history, and the allergens being investigated. In many cases, more than one type of test will be used to build a complete picture.

Test	Best For	Results	Antihistamines OK?
Skin Prick Test	Airborne & food allergens	15–20 minutes	No — stop 3–7 days before
Blood Test (IgE)	Most allergens, esp. when skin testing not possible	3–7 days (lab)	Yes
Patch Test	Contact/skin allergens	48–96 hours	Yes
Oral Food Challenge	Food allergy confirmation	Same day	Discuss with doctor

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have more than one type of allergy test at the same appointment?

Yes — your allergist may run a skin prick test and order a blood test at the same visit, especially if they want to cross-reference results or test for a wide range of allergens.

Are allergy tests accurate?

Allergy tests are reliable when interpreted by a qualified allergist alongside your clinical history. A positive result on a test doesn’t always mean you’ll have a reaction — and a negative result doesn’t always mean you’re in the clear. Context matters, which is why professional interpretation is essential.

Can I get allergy tested at a pharmacy or GP?

Some GPs can perform basic skin prick tests or order IgE blood tests. For comprehensive testing or complex cases, a referral to an allergist or clinical immunologist is recommended.

Is allergy testing covered by medical aid in South Africa?

Most major medical aids cover allergy testing when it’s referred by a doctor. Check your scheme’s benefits and ask your allergist’s practice manager before your appointment to avoid unexpected costs.

The Bottom Line

There is no single “best” allergy test — the right one depends on your symptoms, your age, and what your doctor suspects. The most important step is to see a qualified allergist rather than trying to self-diagnose through elimination alone.

Once you know what you’re dealing with, managing your allergies becomes so much more straightforward.