FAQ

For your convenience, we offer appointments with asthma and allergy doctors at six locations:

• Park Nicollet Clinic—St. Louis Park
• Park Nicollet Clinic—Burnsville
• Park Nicollet Clinic—Chanhassen
• Park Nicollet Clinic—Maple Grove
• Park Nicollet Clinic—Shakopee

Selecting one of these clinic locations will link you to maps and directions. Appointments are available Monday through Friday. Call 952-993-3090 to make an appointment with our specialists at any of our locations.

Most of our patients are referred to us by their primary care doctor for a consultation. This is preferred, but not required.

New patients should allow two hours for their first visit. Before your appointment, you will receive a questionnaire. Please bring this completed questionnaire to your first appointment, plus any medical information related to your asthma or allergy history. More information 

If you are coming in for an allergy skin test, you will need to discontinue any antihistamines (PDF) before your visit. A list of these will be mailed to you.

Skin testing is mildly uncomfortable. Patients tend to rate the discomfort as a one or two out of 10. The ease and immediate results make skin tests the preferred method to test for allergies.

We offer allergy injections at several Park Nicollet sites. In most cases, no appointment is needed. Hours vary by clinic.

Your first clue that you may have an allergy is if you notice a direct or prolonged reaction to one or more allergens, such as a cat that causes sneezing, wheezing, coughing, itching or swelling. You also may notice a seasonal pattern to your symptoms. Many times, however, identifying the source of symptoms, such as those listed above, is more difficult and could require a visit to an allergist, who may suggest allergy skin testing.

Asthma attacks can be triggered by allergies; bacterial and viral infections, such as colds, flu, strep or sinus infections; irritants, such as smoke from tobacco or wood and various dusts; extreme or sudden changes in weather; air pollution; fumes and fragrances; aspirin and other anti-inflammatories, and various emotional stimuli that can trigger more rapid or heavier breathing.

Although no cure for asthma exists, the disease can be managed and controlled with proper medications. Medications typically fall into two categories. Quick-relief medications are sufficient for people with mild, intermittent asthma. Long-term control medications are for people who have frequent asthma episodes or persistent asthma.