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The honeybee is arguably the most beneficial of insects. Aside from making 200 million pounds of honey annually, it is estimated that bees pollinate 50 percent of all fruits and vegetables. Imagine how limited our diets would be without them! Yet in the one percent of the population with allergies to insect venom, these bees and four other types of stinging insects inspire fear. The venom from yellow jackets, paper wasps, hornets, and fire ants, also contain proteins that affect the skin and immune system. These proteins cause pain and swelling in anyone. In those with allergies, serious discomfort, swelling, … Continue Reading

Asthma does not exist in a vacuum. Asthma is connected to a number of other conditions and diseases. Characterized by breathing difficulties, this condition can be caused by other illnesses, and it can trigger other problems. Since asthma is related to so many other diseases, it’s important to have access to specialists near Elgin with a diverse breadth of experience. The doctors at Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates and Food Allergy Center of Illinois specialize in asthma, but they also specialize in a range of related conditions including: AllergiesEosinophilic esophagitis or esophageal inflammationEczemaAllergic rhinitis or hayfeverSinusitis While asthma may be … Continue Reading

There are many types of rashes with many different causes. Typically characterized by bumps, itching, and redness, rashes may be attributed to illnesses such as the chicken pox and measles, friction, excessive exposure to moisture or heat, and poison ivy and other plants. Eczema and hives are rashes that also represent the most common skin conditions, and both are related to allergies. When your immune system mistakenly perceives a substance such as a food, medication, or insect sting as harmful, it attacks the perceived offender by releasing histamines and other chemicals. Skin inflammation is one of the ways your immune system reacts when … Continue Reading

Skin folds that rub against each other, heat and moisture, psoriasis, fungal infections, viruses, and seemingly innumerable other conditions can cause uncomfortable and unsightly rashes. Allergies alone are responsible for many different types of rashes. It can’t be said enough that allergic rashes may seem like a minor problem, but they can be associated with far more serious medical conditions, depending on the type of allergy. Hives Also called urticaria, this skin reaction ranges from itchy dots to blotches several inches around. They are frequently associated with emotional stress. Foods, however, can trigger this disruptive condition. Common culprits include fish … Continue Reading

Allergies do more than make your skin itch and turn red; the triggers responsible for common skin conditions are also responsible for respiratory problems among many allergy sufferers. The most common type of asthma is caused by allergies. A whopping 90 percent of pediatric asthmatics also suffer from allergies, while around 50 percent of adults have both allergies and asthma. The airway narrowing, swelling, and extra mucus caused by asthma makes it difficult to breathe. Asthmatics may also experience: Tightness in the chestCoughingWheezingProblems sleeping due to shortness of breath All allergy symptoms are the result of your immune system overreacting … Continue Reading

Have you ever developed a rash or hives on the skin but have been unaware of what triggered it? Do you experience skin irritations and have yet to determine the source of the problem? Advanced Allergy and Asthma Associates in Elgin and Crystal Lake, IL can provide proper diagnosis of skin allergies with patch testing. What is patch testing? Patch testing is a way in which an allergy doctor can determine the exact cause of allergic reactions that develop on the skin. This type of testing does not involve needles or injections. Instead, it uses small patches of allergens that … Continue Reading

The team of Advanced Allergy and Asthma Associates in Elgin, IL are committed to helping patients with the control and maintenance of their conditions. Adults who are diagnosed with asthma need to work with a doctor and team that can provide treatments for their condition. With the assistance of our experienced staff, patients can enjoy a better quality of life and manage their asthma effectively. What is asthma? Dr. Askenazi describes asthma as a chronic condition of the lungs that can make it difficult for patients to breathe properly. Often, asthma can be triggered and result in an “asthma attack.” … Continue Reading

At Advanced Allergy and Asthma Associates in Elgin, IL, we see many patients who struggle with seasonal allergies. When people think of seasonal allergies, they often associate them with springtime when new growth is occurring in trees, grasses, and flowers. Unfortunately, millions of Americans deal with allergies caused by tree and grass pollen throughout spring and into summer, typically between the months of March through June. These patients may experience problems such as itchy, watery eyes or runny noses. Visiting an allergist can provide patients with tips on dealing with fall allergies and how to seek relief. Tips for fall … Continue Reading

At Advanced Allergy and Asthma Associates, our team of professionals are able to provide a wide range of treatment options for patients who are dealing with certain conditions, including that of sinusitis. This infection can develop in patients who have severe allergies in the area of Crystal Lake, IL. What is sinusitis? Sinusitis is sometimes referred to as a sinus infection. There are sinus cavities that reside in the center of the facial area that hold mucus. When these nasal passages become inflamed and infected, this can result in sinusitis. This condition can be extremely painful for many due to … Continue Reading

Once considered a common drug allergy, some penicillin allergies are actually a misdiagnosis. The penicillin rash is not always a true indication of an allergic reaction. Dr. Noga Askenazi and the staff treat patients near Elgin and Crystal Lake. For patients with allergies, such as a penicillin allergy, we offer accurate diagnosis and treatment. Diagnosing penicillin allergies There are cases of true penicillin allergies. If you have experienced a penicillin allergy in the past or believe you are having an allergic reaction now, our team can provide testing to determine if you have a true allergy to penicillin. Prior to … Continue Reading