Vernon Hills residents want to know when to see a food allergy specialist

Posted By: | Published On: | Food Allergies
Vernon Hills residents want to know when to see a food allergy specialist

An estimated 15 million people in the US have a food allergy, including one in 13 children. With such staggering numbers, it is important to know what symptoms of food allergies are, and when to see an allergy specialist if you suspect a problem. Residents in Vernon Hills can rest assured knowing Dr. Noga Askenazi of Advanced Allergy and Asthma Associates and Food Allergy Center of Illinois have offices located in Elgin and Crystal Lake.

Symptoms of food allergies

An allergy occurs when your body’s natural defense system overreacts to a specific substance, treats it as an invader, and tries to defend the body. Allergies to foods can set off symptoms, usually within minutes or up to two hours after eating the problem food. Depending on the severity of the allergy, symptoms can range from mild discomfort to life threatening.

Most common reactions include:

  • Tingling in the mouth
  • Skin conditions such as hives, itching, or eczema
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble breathing
  • Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Dizziness

Diagnosis and treatment

Food allergies generally trigger a reaction each time the food is encountered. If you suspect food allergies, seeing an allergy specialist is the best course of action. Your doctor will discuss your health history and your allergy symptoms to determine which tests to perform. Skin prick tests, blood tests, and/or oral food challenges may be recommended. Treatment is avoidance of the problem food. Carefully reading food labels or questioning wait staff when eating out is an important part of living with food allergies.

Whether you have food allergies, seasonal allergies, or allergies to antibiotics, contact Dr. Noga Askenazi and the staff. Call (847) 888-8802 to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations.

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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.


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