Illinois clinic provides advanced Allergy and Asthma care in Illinois

Illinois clinic provides advanced Allergy and Asthma care in Illinois

Allergies are a condition that occurs when the body has an undesirable reaction to a substance to which it would not normally react. We use the term “allergic” when describing a specific sensitivity to an allergen. When patients are allergic to something, the body releases histamine that causes symptoms such as itching, stuffy nose, and sneezing. There are instances when a patient may not necessarily be allergic to a substance, but may instead have a sensitivity. True allergies and sensitivities are treated differently, so it is important to note the distinction.

At Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates in Illinois, we have a team of allergists that can diagnose and treat a wide range of issues including hay fever, sinus problems, asthma, and other immunologic disease. Some of the most common allergic conditions that we treat include food allergies, hives, chronic sinus infections, insect allergies, and medication allergies.

The most common form of testing for allergies is skin testing. This test works for discovering to what substances you are (or are not) allergic to. The most common allergens, substances like pollen, mold, foods, and dander are placed on the back. The skin is then pricked and then left to rest for a short period (less than 20 minutes). After the time is over, we then check for reactions. Skin testing for allergies is safe and effective.

If the skin test shows positive for a specific allergen, treatment will then be discussed. Sometimes the best form of treatment is avoidance of the allergen. For others, there may be a benefit to certain medications or allergy shots. Skin testing is also effective at helping the team identify triggers for conditions such as asthma or eczema.

If the skin test is negative, the good news is that you are not specifically allergic to any of the substances for which you were tested. However, we understand that there is still a reason you came in for testing in the first place. We can still help patients who have sensitivities by making recommendations to help control symptoms.

If you have questions about testing or care for allergies and asthma, call us today at (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.