Crystal Lake Asthma Specialist Explains the Importance of Lung Function Testing in Children

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Crystal Lake Asthma Specialist Explains the Importance of Lung Function Testing in Children

As a parent, it can be upsetting to watch your child struggle to breathe or to stop participating in normal activities from shortness of breath. A child whose breathing is irregular may be referred to an asthma specialist for lung function testing to determine how well the lungs are working. Dr. Noga Askenazi of Advanced Allergy and Asthma Associates and Food Allergy Center of Illinois have offices located in Elgin and Crystal Lake.

What to expect

Also, lung function tests are a non-invasive way to assess the lungs and to diagnose respiratory diseases. Lung function tests may be used to check for diseases such as asthma and bronchitis. These tests simply require your child to perform various breathing tests. The child may be asked to pretend to blow out birthday candles or to blow up a balloon to make the test into a game.

Spirometry

For children, spirometry is the most common test. The patient breathes into mouthpiece while wearing a clip on his or her nose. The mouthpiece is connected to a computer which measures how much and how fast the air comes out of your child’s lungs.

To avoid stressing your child, make note of the following considerations:

  • Schedule the test around your child’s routine to avoid stress brought on by hunger or exhaustion.
  • Prior to any doctor’s appointment, it is best to prepare your child to lessen any fears of the physician’s office.
  • Be patient with your child throughout the appointment.
  • Check with the office as some medications should not be given prior to testing.

If you are concerned about your child’s breathing and believe there is a problem, contact Dr. Askenazi and the team about lung function tests. (847) 888-8802

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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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