Elgin allergists discuss common allergies in kids

Posted By: | Published On: | Penicillin Allergy
Elgin allergists discuss common allergies in kids

Allergies are among the most common childhood conditions in the U.S. The most common pediatric allergies affect the skin or are related to foods. Triggers include peanuts, eggs, and dairy products, as well as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mold.

While penicillins account for more allergic reactions than any other drug, allergic reactions to drugs are actually generally less frequent in children and seniors. Furthermore, most pediatric allergic reactions are milder in nature than those of their adult counterparts. These reactions may include hives and other skin rashes.

While hives come and go, other types of skin rashes may spread for 2 weeks. Fever, achy joints, mouth sores, and red or irritated eyes may accompany erythema multiforme.

Kids with penicillin allergies are also not immune to serious symptoms, which may be indicative of anaphylaxis including:

  • Wheezing
  • Respiratory problems
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Facial swelling
  • Swelling of the throat

Penicillin allergies are known to be frequently overdiagnosed. In fact, it’s estimated some 90 percent of people who thought they had penicillin allergies are not actually allergic to the drug. Since penicillins are so commonly used to treat infections, a number of patients may be using less effective and much more costly antibiotic alternatives when they could safely use penicillin.

The specialists at Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates and Food Allergy Center of Illinois will determine if penicillins or another type of trigger are responsible for your child’s troubling and disruptive symptoms.

Dr. Noga Askenazi and the staff offer skin, blood, and ingestion challenges as diagnostic tools. After the true nature of the allergen is identified, they can get your child on an appropriate treatment plan, which may include:

  • Medications to control symptoms
  • Emergency aids such as epinephrine delivery devices
  • Immunotherapy or desensitization

Keep in mind the symptoms of drug allergies in kids, such as runny nose, rashes, watery eyes, and wheezing, mimic any number of common conditions and allergies. Don’t spend another day in the dark about the cause of your child’s discomfort. Schedule an appointment in Elgin at Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates and Food Allergy Center of Illinois. Call (847) 888-8802.

Share this Article


Back to Penicillin Allergy Page

Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates, logo

Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates

Meredith Cirrincione | Dr. Noga Askenazi

Haley Young is a board-certified physician assistant specializing in immunology and allergy with a comprehensive background in neurosurgery and dermatology. Holding a Masters of Physician Assistant Studies from Lincoln Memorial University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Aurora University, she brings a holistic approach to patient care. Haley Young is committed to treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit, adeptly managing complex conditions like allergic rhinitis, food allergies, and asthma. She is a member of prestigious professional organizations and is dedicated to building trust with her patients, ensuring compassionate and comprehensive care.


Amy Schack, a distinguished board-certified Physician Associate, brings a wealth of expertise to patient care. Specializing in allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, asthma, and rashes, Amy is renowned for her commitment to excellence and compassionate approach. With a background in immediate care and orthopedics, she holds a Master's in Physician Assistant studies from Midwestern University and a Bachelor of Science from Northern Illinois University. A member of esteemed professional associations, including the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Association of PAs in Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, Amy Schack instills confidence, ensuring you can trust her unwavering dedication to your health and well-being.


Meredith Cirrincione is a board certified Physician Assistant and specializes in treating allergies, with a focus on asthma, rashes, environmental allergies, chemical and food allergies. She holds a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from The Chicago Medical School - Rosalind Franklin University of Health Sciences. She is a Fellow member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, the Illinois Academy of Physician Assistants, and the Association of PAs in Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. She likes to approach things holistically. She is a strong patient advocate and adored by her patients. She enjoys singing, reading, cooking, and the great outdoors.


Dr. Noga Askenazi is a nationally recognized asthma and allergy specialist who is board certified in pediatric and adult allergy. Her areas of special interest are innovative treatment of rashes, sinusitis, food allergies, asthma and immune disorders. She was past President of the ISAAI (Illinois Society of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology), works on state and national committees for advancement of the allergy field and is a consultant for Advocate, Ascension Health, Northwestern amongst other health care systems. Her joy is helping patients reach their goals after together determining best treatments. Her staff and patients are a chosen family, and she invests in their happiness. She enjoys gardening, biking and cooking to good music.


Penicillin Allergy Testing