expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Monika Korff, M.D.

Allergist & Immunologist

Dr. Monika Korff practices Allergy and Immunology care in Baltimore, MD. Dr. Korff specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of asthma and other allergic diseases. Allergist-Immunologists are trained and certified to treat each patients sensitivity and response to allergens of varying severity. Dr. Korff provides several means of testing and treatment to increase immunity to potentially harmful substances.
23 years Experience
Dr. Monika Korff, M.D.
  • Columbia, MD
  • Loma Linda University
  • Accepting new patients

Can you develop allergies at any age?

Yes, allergies can develop at any age. Allergies to certain things are more common in some age groups compared to others but people can become symptomatic at different times in READ MORE
Yes, allergies can develop at any age. Allergies to certain things are more common in some age groups compared to others but people can become symptomatic at different times in their lives.

Asthma question?

Albuterol is used as a rescue inhaler for episodes of cough and/or wheezing related to asthma.

How old must a child be for an allergy test?

She can most certainly have allergy testing. When appropriate or indicated we can even do testing in infancy.

How to help daughter with allergies?

The first and most helpful thing for her will be to have a formal evaluation by an allergist who should be able to test for allergies and define exactly what your daughter is allergic READ MORE
The first and most helpful thing for her will be to have a formal evaluation by an allergist who should be able to test for allergies and define exactly what your daughter is allergic to. That will help to select the best therapeutic approach for her - from simple medications such as over the counter antihistamines to nasal sprays, prescription medications, etc. Environmental measures can also be helpful depending on what her allergic sensitizations are. So talk with your pediatrician and have her evaluated by a specialist they feel comfortable working with and trust.

How to manage a cat allergy?

Yes, there certainly are ways to manage symptoms and treat the allergic symptoms. I would suggest she sees an allergist who does proper testing to evaluate the cat allergy as well READ MORE
Yes, there certainly are ways to manage symptoms and treat the allergic symptoms. I would suggest she sees an allergist who does proper testing to evaluate the cat allergy as well as other potential inhalants such as dust which could be c contributing to her symptoms. Then therapeutic options can be addressed - those include but are not limited to medications, immunotherapy, environmental measures, etc.

Can you eat chocolate with avocado in a mousse or something?

I would say that if the person does not have any food allergies to either of the foods they can be mixed.

Can a cat allergy in a child be managed?

There are several ways to manage pet allergy. There are measures to minimize dander exposure at home, medications to control the symptoms and of course there are different immunotherapy READ MORE
There are several ways to manage pet allergy. There are measures to minimize dander exposure at home, medications to control the symptoms and of course there are different immunotherapy options - drops or shots. You should see an allergist to go over each option and devise a treatment plan that will be best for your child.

What can I do with my son's seasonal allergy?

The best approach will be for your son to see an allergist who can do proper evaluation, testing if indicated and choose a combination of medications or consider allergy shots. READ MORE
The best approach will be for your son to see an allergist who can do proper evaluation, testing if indicated and choose a combination of medications or consider allergy shots.

How should one deal with an allergy to dust?

There are several strategies to deal with dust allergy - some include measures to be taken at home esp. bedroom - special covers for the bedding, hard floor surface, etc, others READ MORE
There are several strategies to deal with dust allergy - some include measures to be taken at home esp. bedroom - special covers for the bedding, hard floor surface, etc, others include medications, allergy shots, etc.
I would advise to see an allergist who can decide on the best strategy for your child based on the symptoms they are experiencing.

Are allergy shots safe?

Yes allergy shots are available for some allergies but there are no allergy shots for food allergies - I would advise to see an allergist for full evaluation and suggestions on READ MORE
Yes allergy shots are available for some allergies but there are no allergy shots for food allergies - I would advise to see an allergist for full evaluation and suggestions on how to manage your son's symptoms.

Can certain foods trigger coughing?

Coughing is a complex reflex that can be triggered by variety of factors. Some foods can trigger it as well - the consistency of the food, underlying conditions such as reflux READ MORE
Coughing is a complex reflex that can be triggered by variety of factors. Some foods can trigger it as well - the consistency of the food, underlying conditions such as reflux and at times sensitivity to chemicals in the foods can be contributing to worsening cough. If you are concerned about food allergies, I would advise seeing an allergist and also addressing the issue with your child's pediatrician.

Are there any allergy shots for seasonal allergies?

Yes there is allergen immunotherapy also known as allergy shots that you can consider. You should see an allergist and have allergy testing first and then go over your options. READ MORE
Yes there is allergen immunotherapy also known as allergy shots that you can consider. You should see an allergist and have allergy testing first and then go over your options.

Is an allergy responsible for son's hives?

I am sorry your son is having trouble. Unfortunately hives are a common condition and can have various triggers. While allergies can be a cause most of the triggers for hives are READ MORE
I am sorry your son is having trouble. Unfortunately hives are a common condition and can have various triggers. While allergies can be a cause most of the triggers for hives are non allergic in nature. If the hives are recurring and seem to not have a pattern you will benefit from evaluation by an allergist - we are well trained and prepared to evaluate and treat recurrent hives.

Why is my son allergic to citrus fruits?

There are a lot of adverse reactions to citrus fruits though most of them are not truly allergic in nature. I would advise that you see an allergist who will be able to not only READ MORE
There are a lot of adverse reactions to citrus fruits though most of them are not truly allergic in nature. I would advise that you see an allergist who will be able to not only test him but give you suggestions based on the history and type of his reaction.

Can my son have soy milk if he has a dairy allergy?

I strongly advise that you see an allergist who will be able to test your child for dairy alternative milks to see which one he will be safe with. I would not suggest blindly trying READ MORE
I strongly advise that you see an allergist who will be able to test your child for dairy alternative milks to see which one he will be safe with. I would not suggest blindly trying products as you are risking a reaction in him.

What does anaphylactic shock look like?

You should have a conversation with the parent of the food allergic child for sure as they have likely seen her react before. In general, symptoms of anaphylaxis begin shortly READ MORE
You should have a conversation with the parent of the food allergic child for sure as they have likely seen her react before. In general, symptoms of anaphylaxis begin shortly after ingestion of the allergen and can include itching, sneezing, itchy watery eyes, swelling of eyes or lips, hives either on the face only or generalized, vomiting, diarrhea, and abd. pain. If ever in doubt, Epinephrine should be administered immediately, and then call 911.

Tested positive for allergy, but never had reaction. Normal?

Yes, actually there are several reasons for such situations. One possible and quite common reason is cross reactivity between proteins in foods and inhalants (pollens). That cross READ MORE
Yes, actually there are several reasons for such situations. One possible and quite common reason is cross reactivity between proteins in foods and inhalants (pollens). That cross reactivity can give a positive test result for the food while the primary allergic antibody is directed against the cross reacting pollen. I would strongly advise you review your results with a board certified allergist who is well trained on how to interpret such results and will be able to direct you about what you need and do not need to avoid in the future.

How are seasonal allergies diagnosed?

You can see an allergist who is trained in allergy testing and treatment and they can do easy superficial scratch tests to determine the specific inhalants your child is allergic READ MORE
You can see an allergist who is trained in allergy testing and treatment and they can do easy superficial scratch tests to determine the specific inhalants your child is allergic to.

What are the symptoms of a nickel allergy?

If you are interested to be tested you can see an allergist who can offer you a patch test for nickel and any other chemicals or metals you may be reacting to - they will determine READ MORE
If you are interested to be tested you can see an allergist who can offer you a patch test for nickel and any other chemicals or metals you may be reacting to - they will determine the proper testing once they obtain your clinical history in more detail.

Is there a cure for dust allergies?

There are treatments for dust and other inhalant allergies. Allergy shots, sublingual immunotherapy are only some of the options, I suggest you see an allergist who to perform READ MORE
There are treatments for dust and other inhalant allergies. Allergy shots, sublingual immunotherapy are only some of the options, I suggest you see an allergist who to perform testing and discuss the treatment options for you and your son.