Discover diagnosis and treatment for a penicillin allergy in Crystal Lake

Discover diagnosis and treatment for a penicillin allergy in Crystal Lake

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 your appointment, make notes to help determine the cause of your symptoms.

  • Write down your symptoms, when they began, how long they lasted, and whether you have ever experienced them in the past.
  • Let the physician know if you are taking any other medications.
  • Make a note of anything you used to treat your symptoms.
  • Tell your doctor if you have any other allergies or if there is a family history of penicillin allergies.
  • Take photos of symptoms such as a rash or swelling as the symptoms may subside by the time of your appointment.

Penicillin allergy treatment

Treatment for penicillin allergies may involve treating the current allergy symptoms or working on desensitization to penicillin. In treating the current symptoms, interventions may be used to treat the symptoms of an allergic reaction. This may include:

  • Withdrawal – For patients with a true penicillin allergy, discontinuing the drug is the first step in treatment.
  • Antihistamines – A prescribed, or over-the-counter antihistamine helps block the immune system chemicals that are activated during an allergic reaction.
  • Corticosteroids – Treat inflammation associated with the reaction.
  • Anaphylaxis treatment – For severe allergic reactions, epinephrine injections and hospital care are needed.

Drug desensitization is only done if there are no other antibiotic treatment options available. The drug must be taken as directed and patients are carefully monitored. Desensitization is rarely used if a severe reaction has been caused in the past.

For more information on penicillin allergy treatment, contact our office for an appointment. Call (847) 888-8802.

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Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates

Meredith Cirrincione | Dr. Noga Askenazi

Haley Young is a board-certified physician assistant specializing in immunology and allergy with a comprehensive background in neurosurgery and dermatology. Holding a Masters of Physician Assistant Studies from Lincoln Memorial University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Aurora University, she brings a holistic approach to patient care. Haley Young is committed to treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit, adeptly managing complex conditions like allergic rhinitis, food allergies, and asthma. She is a member of prestigious professional organizations and is dedicated to building trust with her patients, ensuring compassionate and comprehensive care.


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.