Common Causes and Symptoms of Eczema in Elgin

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Common Causes and Symptoms of Eczema in Elgin

Eczema is a condition that affects children and adults in the United States and is a medical condition that results in the skin becoming irritated and inflamed. There are different types of eczema which means that allergists such as Dr. Noga Askenazi and the staff need to provide individuals with an appropriate diagnosis before being able to address the issue. At Advanced Allergy and Asthma Associates and Food Allergy Center of Illinois in Elgin, we understand that this condition is present in up to 20% of infants and 3% of adults and children. Some patients have mild issues with it early on in life and outgrow the condition, while others deal with flare-ups throughout their life. Knowing the type of eczema patients are dealing with and the proper methods of treating it are the best way to tackle it and provide patients with the comfort they need to feel better about themselves and their condition.

The cause of eczema is unknown. It is believed to be linked to an overactive response of the body’s natural immune system to a skin irritant. It is often seen in patients who have families with a history of allergies and asthma. Patients who are also at a higher risk for eczema are those with skin barrier defects that keep moisture from penetrating the skin and allow germs in. This can result in unwanted flare-ups or consistent problems with eczema.

It is important for patients to understand the symptoms of eczema. Most patients will experience problems such as:

  • Itching skin
  • Rash
  • Dry, thick, and scaly skin
  • Reddish and brown skin discoloration
  • Pigmentation concerns (lighter or darker skin in the problem area)
  • Oozing and crusting of eczema patches

At Advanced Allergy and Asthma Associates and Food Allergy Center of Illinois, we can help patients determine the type of eczema they are dealing with to provide sufficient assistance. We can also determine the best course of treatment which may include oral medications or topical creams. Our team of allergists is happy to offer quality, comprehensive care to new and existing patients of their practice.

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Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates

Meredith Cirrincione | Dr. Noga Askenazi

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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