Allergy treatment can provide relief for Long Grove, IL residents

Posted By: | Published On: | Allergy Treatment
Allergy treatment can provide relief for Long Grove, IL residents

Immunotherapy is a common form of treatment for relief of allergy symptoms. It decreases the body’s sensitivity to allergens. It works by injecting the patient with small amounts of the allergen (allergy shots) and increasing the dose over several months. It is extremely effective in preventing the progression of allergic reactions into asthma and can provide long-term relief for patients who have suffered greatly from allergies.

Allergy shots are only used for patients who are experiencing asthma, allergic rhinitis (nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing), or insect bite or sting allergy. For patients with food allergies, the best form of treatment is strict avoidance of the triggering food.

Making the decision to receive treatment with immunotherapy is based on several factors:

  • Severity of symptoms
  • Previous response to medications (antihistamines)
  • Ability to make a long term time commitment to treatment
  • The need or desire to avoid use of medications

How immunotherapy works:

Immunotherapy works similar to the way that a vaccine works. Your body gradually develops an immunity or tolerance to the particular allergen after gradually being exposed to it over time. The treatment is typically broken down into two phases. During the first phase, patients will receive injections anywhere from one to two times per week for a period of three to six months. Once the desired effective dose of the allergen is reached, patients will enter a maintenance mode. At this point, there will be longer periods between treatments, anywhere from two to four weeks.

Candidates for immunotherapy:

Children as young as five can receive immunotherapy treatment. There have been studies that have shown the advantages of immunotherapy in preventing new allergies in children. It can also be helpful in preventing the development of asthma in children. Older patients who currently have cardiac disease may encounter increased risk with immunotherapy.

Benefits of immunotherapy:

Patients may notice a reduction of allergy symptoms in the first phase and continue to see progressive results during the course of treatment, but it can take up to twelve months on the maintenance dose to reach maximum effectiveness. Immunotherapy can provide long lasting relief from allergy symptoms and has the potential to prevent development of asthma and allergies in children.

If you are near the Long Grove, IL area and have been suffering from allergies call us today at (847) 888-8802 to find out more about how immunotherapy can improve your quality of life.

Share this Article


Back to Allergy Treatment Page

Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates, logo

Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates

Meredith Cirrincione | Dr. Noga Askenazi

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