Crystal Lake allergist uses testing to determine if your symptoms are a result of food allergies

Crystal Lake allergist uses testing to determine if your symptoms are a result of food allergies

When you come to Advanced Allergy and Asthma Associates in Crystal Lake complaining of symptoms you think are related to food allergies, we will recommend testing. When done properly, allergy tests are a great tool to rule in or out food allergies.

What are food allergies?

For many, eating certain foods can cause an immune system response that produces antibodies against the food. Even small amounts of the food can cause symptoms such as hives, digestive problems, itching in the mouth, inflammation of the lips, face, or tongue, dizziness, or swollen airways. For some people, food allergies can cause extremely severe life-threatening symptoms.

Testing for allergies

Confirming or ruling out food allergies is a multi-faceted process. We will begin by getting a detailed history of symptoms, medical history, and perform an examination. We will recommend a skin prick allergy test.

Skin prick test

Prior to the test, we will ask for a list of any medications that you are currently taking because certain medications can interfere with the skin’s reaction during the test. Dr. Askenazi can advise you on what medications to avoid or continue taking leading up to your test.

During the testing, tiny amounts of the suspected allergen will be placed on the skin and it will be lightly pricked to allow the substance to get beneath the skin’s surface. Skin testing is generally done on the forearm or the back.

If you are allergic to any of the substances, the spot will become red and raised like a mosquito bite.

After the test, Dr. Askenazi can discuss the results with you and describe ways you can minimize your exposure and reduce symptoms.

If you are in the Crystal Lake area and are experiencing symptoms related to food allergies, call (847) 888-8802 to schedule an appointment for skin testing.

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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.