Elgin area residents ask, “Can asthma attacks be prevented?”

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Elgin area residents ask, “Can asthma attacks be prevented?”

Asthma attacks cannot always be prevented, but by working with us at Advanced Allergy and Asthma Associates, we can help patients in Elgin and surrounding areas live with it and prevent exposure to triggers. Common triggers for asthma are dust mites, mold, pollen, cockroaches, foods, smoking, and high humidity. Allergy shots can decrease the development of asthma by 50% if it has not developed in those with nasal allergy symptoms.

Asthma is often an ongoing condition that needs consistent and regular management. We will help you come up with an “asthma action plan” which will function as a detailed guide for taking your medications, preventing exposure to triggers, and managing an attack when it occurs.

Staying current with vaccinations for the flu and pneumonia can help prevent flare-ups. It is important to find out what instigates or exacerbates your asthma. This information can help you avoid situations that could worsen your condition and cause an attack.

Other helpful tips for preventing asthma attacks include:

  • Consider using allergen-proof or allergen-impermeable covers on pillows and mattresses. Wash bedding weekly in hot water.
  • Keep dogs and cats out of your bedroom.
  • Consider removing carpeting, or having it vacuumed at least twice a week with a vacuum that contains an air filter.
  • Dust all surfaces in your home often with a damp cloth.
  • Wash stuffed animals.
  • Avoid areas where people are smoking.
  • Educate yourself on cleaning products used in your home or office to minimize exposure.
  • Stay indoors when the air quality is low or during peak pollen days.
  • Use a dehumidifier in the home.
  • Change air filters regularly.
  • Clean bathrooms with products that kill mold, remove any carpet from bathrooms.
  • Do not leave wet clothes in the washing machine because mold can grow fast.
  • Limit the number of indoor plants.
  • Keep firewood stored outside.

In addition, it is important for to be aware of the signs and symptoms of an asthma attack which may include wheezing, coughing, tightening of the chest, and shortness of breath. If you are unable to walk or talk, if your lips or fingernails are blue, or if your rescue inhaler does not alleviate symptoms it is important to seek emergency care.

To learn more about controlling asthma and preventing attacks, call us today and schedule a consultation.

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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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