Two Charities Fight Allergy in Derby

Two charities are working together to offer a specialist allergy service for sufferers in the Derby area.

Nuffield Diagnostics, part of the not-for-profit Nuffield Hospitals group, has opened an allergy clinic at the Nuffield Hospital in Littleover, Derby.

The clinic, supported by national charity Allergy UK, means that local people can refer themselves for a consultation and a test conducted by a specially-trained allergy nurse from just £100.

“Most allergy can be dealt with through lifestyle management, medication and avoidance”, said a spokesman for Nuffield Diagnostics.

“We will soon be getting into the hay-fever season but allergies affect people all the year round.

“Apart from the test, each patient will receive advice and information, plus - with the patient’s permission - one year’s free membership to Allergy UK who will provide information and support in the coming year”.

If an allergy is particularly complex, the nurse may suggest further tests or referral to an allergy specialist for further treatment or advice.

If a patient’s clinical history suggests that the symptoms are due to food intolerance or another form of hypersensitivity, advice and support will be given through Allergy UK.

Allergies affect 1 in 3 people in this country, says the charity, yet few national resources are allocated into the diagnosis and treatment of this multi-organ disease.

Appointments can be made by calling 0845 602 6442, Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm. Clinic opening times are Tuesday (10am - 12.15pm), Thursday (2pm - 4.15pm) and Friday (5pm - 7.15pm).