asthma sufferers of Illinois know where to go for quality care

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asthma sufferers of Illinois know where to go for quality care

Asthma, a chronic condition that disrupts normal breathing, is experienced by nearly 22 million Americans, both children and adults. Those who suffer from asthma are very sensitive to triggers that can cause severe symptoms, which is why it is so important for patients to see an experienced asthma specialist such as Dr. Askenazi to keep the condition under control.

One of the most important aspects of asthma control is being able to identify and avoid your personal triggers. Some of the most common triggers are infections, exercise, weather, smoke, allergens, irritants, and some medications. With the exception of exercise, it’s important to avoid these triggers whenever possible. For exercise, there are pre-treatment medicines that can allow asthma sufferers to maintain a healthy active lifestyle.

Asthma is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, family history, symptoms, and testing. Your specialist will want to know if you have a family history of asthma or allergies along with specifics on your symptoms. Keeping a journal with details of your symptoms including when they occur and how long they last can be extremely helpful in diagnosing asthma. In addition, x-rays, blood tests, allergy tests and breathing tests can help determine whether you have asthma.

Because asthma is a chronic condition, it can be controlled, but not cured. Patients with properly controlled Asthma are able to prevent symptoms and enjoy relatively normal lives. The two main types of asthma medication are anti-inflammatory drugs and bronchodilators.

Anti- inflammatory drugs

These drugs reduce mucus production and swelling of the airways, minimizing their reaction to triggers. They are taken daily and can help patients experience fewer symptoms and attacks. When taken properly they are very effective at controlling asthma symptoms.

Bronchodilators

These drugs relax the muscles around the airway, allowing them to remain open for air to move in and out of the lungs. They are also effective in allowing mucus to be more easily removed from the lungs. When taken properly they are great at relieving asthma symptoms quickly. Some long-acting bronchodilators can help control symptoms and prevent attacks.

These drugs can be prescribed in inhaler, nebulizer, or oral forms. For more information on asthma diagnosis and treatment in the Elgin, IL area, contact our office today.

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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.


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