Illinois specialists discuss when to see an allergist, why prompt intervention is key

Illinois specialists discuss when to see an allergist, why prompt intervention is key

If you are asking the question, “When should I see an allergist?” chances are you are experiencing disruptive and concerning symptoms already. This is reason enough to visit the specialized professionals at Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates and Food Allergy Center of Illinois. In turn, our doctors have a few questions for you.

Are symptoms decreasing your quality of life?

With more than 50 million Americans experiencing asthma, hay fever, and other related conditions, symptoms such as sneezing and itching are very common and may not need treatment. However, the severity of these conditions can differ widely from person-to-person, and can even vary dramatically with one person — as symptoms ebb and flow throughout an individual’s lifetime.

It’s possible that your runny nose, coughing, and watery eyes are not so bad as to interfere with your work, school, or athletic performance. There is also the possibility that these and other symptoms may be so bad you find yourself retreating to the bathroom to blow your nose so frequently that your boss is starting to look at you suspiciously.

Your nose, eyes, and roof of your mouth may be so itchy that it’s difficult to drive. The congestion can keep you up at night and make it difficult to breathe. The next morning you can’t perform as well at school or on the job because you haven’t slept.

You may not be able to enjoy the sports or activities you once loved because sleep has suffered, or because the outdoor activities or exercise may bring on symptoms or make symptoms worse. This is no way to live. Dr. Askenazi, and their professional staff can identify your triggers and get you feeling better in no time so you can enjoy work, studies, and the activities you love again.

Are symptoms scaring you?

Allergies and related conditions are not to be taken lightly. Some types of allergies, such as those caused by foods such as peanuts, can be life threatening. The trigger can set off a reaction called anaphylaxis.

If you are experiencing difficulty breathing, dizziness, nausea, or swelling in the mouth region, this is not only worthy of a visit to Allergy & Asthma Associates but it is an emergency. You need care right away.

The specialists at our center can also match you to an epinephrine delivery device as part of a treatment plan. These devices can be lifesavers, as they are designed to bring quick relief to symptoms until emergency responders show up.

In addition to asthma, there are a number of other conditions with serious implications that are related to allergies including:

  • Chronic sinus infections
  • Headaches
  • Ear infections

Furthermore, if you have existing problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes, trying to manage symptoms on your own with store-bought problems can actually be dangerous. The specialists at Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates and Food Allergy Center of Illinois are equipped to safely treat those symptoms. Call 847-888-8802 to move beyond the question of “When to see an allergist?” and to get answers to your concerns so that you can feel better soon.

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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.