Crystal Lake patients ask about their options for treating spring allergies

Posted By: | Published On: | Allergy Treatment
Crystal Lake patients ask about their options for treating spring allergies

Spring is the time of year that we want to be outdoors often. The temperature is comfortable and everything begins to turn green and bloom after the long winter. The problem is that springtime air is full of allergens such as tree pollen and spores that can wreak havoc for allergy sufferers. If you’ve spent the spring months sniffling and sneezing with watery eyes, you are familiar with spring allergies.

So how do you treat spring allergies?

The first step is to discover what allergen is causing your symptoms. There are many spring allergens, so one of the most effective ways to find out your particular allergen is through a skin test. They are quick, effective, and accurate at determining what you are allergic to.

Once your allergy trigger is discovered, it is important to keep track of allergen levels in the air. By looking at the pollen count, you can try to avoid prolonged exposure and help keep your symptoms to a minimum.

There are also a number of over the counter methods for reducing your spring allergy symptoms. Many patients start by taking an antihistamine like Claritin each morning in combination with a saline spray. If this combination does not work, you may benefit from a corticosteroid spray.

Some other ways to help control symptoms include:

  • Shower after spending a long time outdoors.
  • Keep your windows closed.
  • Wash bedding, clothes, and other linens often to help remove pollen.

If you do not see any improvement in symptoms after trying over-the-counter medications and lifestyle changes, it’s time for an appointment to look at treatment options including prescription medications.

Prescription strength medications such as antihistamines, nasal steroids, and leukotriene modifiers can help control spring allergies in just a few short weeks.

Another option for treatment is allergy shots. The shots are administered once or twice a week in the beginning. Prescription medications will still be taken to help manage symptoms. Most patients notice a reduction in the amount and severity of symptoms by the next allergy season.

Spring allergy relief for patients in Elgin can be a reality. Call us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about treatment options to manage and reduce your symptoms.

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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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