Advanced Allergy and Asthma Specialist in Illinois addresses life-threatening allergies
Many people think of allergies as the seasonal condition referred to as hay fever, which causes runny noses, red-rimmed and itchy eyes, and sneezing. Some allergies, however, can cause much more severe reactions. Anaphylaxis is a severe and sudden allergic reaction, which needs to be treated immediately. Luckily, most allergy sufferers will never experience anaphylaxis, but it is important to understand the symptoms and triggers.
Shortly after exposure to an allergy trigger, a series of reactions occur in the body, causing blood vessels to expand temporarily. This, in turn, lowers blood pressure and may cause fainting. Hives or swelling may appear, commonly on the throat and face, and the patient may have difficulty swallowing, talking, or breathing. Some causes of anaphylaxis are:
- Peanuts are the most common cause of allergic reaction
- Fish and shellfish account for about half of all anaphylactic reactions
- Wheat, dairy, and eggs allergies often affect children
- Sesame seeds, legumes and beans
- Insect bites or stings from bees, hornets, ants, and ticks
- Latex, including gloves, syringes, balloons, and elastic
- Medications
- Prescription medications, such as antibiotics, muscle relaxants, imaging dyes, and chemotherapy drugs
- Over the counter medications, including ibuprofen, aspirin, and anti-inflammatory medication
- Exercise has been known to cause anaphylaxis, particularly after exposure to an allergen
At Advanced Allergy and Asthma Associates, our board-certified physicians, Dr. Noga Askenazi and the staff specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies and asthma for children and adults. Providing the latest technologies, our specialists offer a variety of diagnostics, including skin prick tests, blood tests, skin patch tests, oral challenges, and lung-function testing. Treatment is provided for:
- Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis
- Food allergies
- Allergic conjunctivitis, or eye allergies
- Insect venom allergies
- Pet allergies
- Allergic asthma
- Pediatric and adult asthma
For patients experiencing symptoms of allergies, regardless of the severity, it is important to understand the cause of allergies and to control the symptoms for optimal health and quality of life. Flexible appointments may be scheduled online or by calling (847) 888-8802. Advanced Allergy and Asthma Associates’ two offices are conveniently located at 730 East Terra Cotta Avenue in Crystal Lake, 2445 Westfield Drive in Elgin.
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