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.
24 years
Experience
Dr. Monika Korff, M.D.
- Columbia, MD
- Loma Linda University
- Accepting new patients
No results found
Are sinus infections contagious?
Thank you for the questions. Sinus infections are not contagious and they cannot be passed from one person to another like other respiratory infections - common cold, the flu, READ MORE
Thank you for the questions. Sinus infections are not contagious and they cannot be passed from one person to another like other respiratory infections - common cold, the flu, Strep throat are some examples of contagious illnesses.
I hope you and your mom feel better soon.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
I hope you and your mom feel better soon.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
How long does it take for one to get over an allergy?
Dear parent of an allergy sufferer,
There isn’t an easy answer. While allergies can certainly change over time, there isn’t a specific timeline - everyone is different. Some READ MORE
Dear parent of an allergy sufferer,
There isn’t an easy answer. While allergies can certainly change over time, there isn’t a specific timeline - everyone is different. Some patients stop reacting to their allergy triggers after few years, others retain their allergic sensitization for most of their life. I don’t know how old your daughter is, but during and following puberty, many children resolve their allergies, though not everyone. Allergen immunotherapy is the only treatment we have to help desensitize allergy sufferers, and in the meantime, medications can help with symptoms. You should see an allergist and have all of your questions answered.
Best of luck.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
There isn’t an easy answer. While allergies can certainly change over time, there isn’t a specific timeline - everyone is different. Some patients stop reacting to their allergy triggers after few years, others retain their allergic sensitization for most of their life. I don’t know how old your daughter is, but during and following puberty, many children resolve their allergies, though not everyone. Allergen immunotherapy is the only treatment we have to help desensitize allergy sufferers, and in the meantime, medications can help with symptoms. You should see an allergist and have all of your questions answered.
Best of luck.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
What is procedure to know other allergies in the body?
Dear concerned mom,
I am sorry about the issues your child is having. Unfortunately, there is not an easy way to answer your question as there isn't one test to "look for allergies READ MORE
Dear concerned mom,
I am sorry about the issues your child is having. Unfortunately, there is not an easy way to answer your question as there isn't one test to "look for allergies in the body." First, gluten allergy is a misnomer. Most cases fall into one of two categories - celiac disease or non celiac gluten sensitivity. It is very important to know which category one falls into as they carry different risks long-term. There are no "hidden" allergies so screening tests for allergies do not exist and are not generally done. We have different ways of evaluating allergies based on the patient's clinical symptoms. Therefore, I strongly urge you to see a board certified allergist if you have specific concerns about allergies in your child. If he does not have any obvious symptoms, then the presence of allergies is highly unlikely.
Best of luck.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
I am sorry about the issues your child is having. Unfortunately, there is not an easy way to answer your question as there isn't one test to "look for allergies in the body." First, gluten allergy is a misnomer. Most cases fall into one of two categories - celiac disease or non celiac gluten sensitivity. It is very important to know which category one falls into as they carry different risks long-term. There are no "hidden" allergies so screening tests for allergies do not exist and are not generally done. We have different ways of evaluating allergies based on the patient's clinical symptoms. Therefore, I strongly urge you to see a board certified allergist if you have specific concerns about allergies in your child. If he does not have any obvious symptoms, then the presence of allergies is highly unlikely.
Best of luck.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
What is the best medicine for sinus relief?
Dear sir,
I will start my answer with an apology because I will not be able to give you a specific name of a medication. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as heat medicine READ MORE
Dear sir,
I will start my answer with an apology because I will not be able to give you a specific name of a medication. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as heat medicine because we usually give suggestions based on the type of symptoms, chronic or acuteness of the issue, and also the suspected trigger - a viral illness or underlying allergies. I suggest you speak with your PCP or an ENT if you are having chronic issues. Some possibilities include nasal steroid sprays such as Flonase, Nasacort, etc. Tylenol or Advil cold preparations for pain relief and decongestants, etc.
I hope you feel better soon.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
I will start my answer with an apology because I will not be able to give you a specific name of a medication. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as heat medicine because we usually give suggestions based on the type of symptoms, chronic or acuteness of the issue, and also the suspected trigger - a viral illness or underlying allergies. I suggest you speak with your PCP or an ENT if you are having chronic issues. Some possibilities include nasal steroid sprays such as Flonase, Nasacort, etc. Tylenol or Advil cold preparations for pain relief and decongestants, etc.
I hope you feel better soon.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
I get itchy every time I'm around a dog. Is this an allergy
I am sorry you are experiencing those issues. Yes, you’re symptoms are suggestive of an allergic sensitization to dog dander. I would strongly advise you see a specialist - an READ MORE
I am sorry you are experiencing those issues. Yes, you’re symptoms are suggestive of an allergic sensitization to dog dander. I would strongly advise you see a specialist - an allergist - who should be able to do the proper testing and given you treatment options.
Good luck.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Good luck.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Can sunscreen cause a skin allergy?
I am sorry you are experiencing that discomfort, but you need to stop using that particular brand. The degree of SPF is never the issue - it is the type of the sunscreen, people READ MORE
I am sorry you are experiencing that discomfort, but you need to stop using that particular brand. The degree of SPF is never the issue - it is the type of the sunscreen, people with sensitive skin should use only mineral sunscreen (ex. titanium dioxide) instead of the chemical ones. The active ingredient of the sunscreen should either be zinc oxide or titanium dioxide - that is the only ingredient you need to concentrate on. Labels such as hypoallergenic, etc., are just marketing tools - the ingredients is what you need to concentrate on. Every time you try a new product, I would advise applying a small amount on your arm - (quarter size in diameter of skin) - and leave it for at least 12hrs - 24 hrs is the best. If there is no irritation, then you will be able to tolerate the product.
Hope that helps.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Hope that helps.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
What happens when a brown recluse spider bites?
The duration of symptoms depends on the depth of the bite, the area of the body where the injury occurred, etc. It is not unusual to have residual symptoms for weeks after such READ MORE
The duration of symptoms depends on the depth of the bite, the area of the body where the injury occurred, etc. It is not unusual to have residual symptoms for weeks after such as bite. Because of the toxicity of the bite, it is not unusual for intense inflammation to appear at the site, so if you have worried about the appearance or there is a lot of pain, you need to seek medical attention right away.
Hope that helps,
Monika Korff, MD
Hope that helps,
Monika Korff, MD
I have severe allergy to eggplant. Can it ever be cured?
I am sorry to hear about issue you are experiencing. Fortunately, this is a reaction to a food that is not easily hidden so avoidance is not as problematic as for other food allergies. READ MORE
I am sorry to hear about issue you are experiencing. Fortunately, this is a reaction to a food that is not easily hidden so avoidance is not as problematic as for other food allergies. However, it is obviously causing you some distress. Unfortunately, at the present, we do not have a cure or ways to resolve food allergies. Allergies in general, however, tend to change or transform over time, so it is likely that in a few years, the degree of reactivity you are currently experiencing may decline. Until then, you will need to continue to do your best to avoid coming in contact with eggplant.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
What are the possible triggers of eczema?
Eczema while common is a complicated condition. There is a myriad of triggers - some allergic, most none - and no two patients are the same in terms of triggers. I would strongly READ MORE
Eczema while common is a complicated condition. There is a myriad of triggers - some allergic, most none - and no two patients are the same in terms of triggers. I would strongly encourage you to see an allergist for evaluation and to discuss proper skin care regimen which is essential and crucial in controlling the condition as there is no cure. While dermatologists can also help with that allergists are uniquely trained in managing this condition in the best possible way.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
How is poison oak allergy treated?
Unfortunately, I cannot offer you a singular treatment approach as it depends on the symptoms and severity. The range of options vary from a topical steroid and antihistamines READ MORE
Unfortunately, I cannot offer you a singular treatment approach as it depends on the symptoms and severity. The range of options vary from a topical steroid and antihistamines for skin rash and itching to oral steroids when the symptoms are more systemic and severe. I would advise wearing protective clothing - long sleeves and long pants, washing hands and if you notice a rash then seek medical evaluation and assistance soon rather than waiting to see if the symptoms will progress.
Good luck and enjoy your trip.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Good luck and enjoy your trip.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
My daughter is lactose intolerant. When should we start with enzymes if at all?
Dear concerned mom,
You can try the enzyme therapy now. Unless you do you would not know if your daughter will see a benefit. Many of my patients do not see much difference READ MORE
Dear concerned mom,
You can try the enzyme therapy now. Unless you do you would not know if your daughter will see a benefit. Many of my patients do not see much difference in their symptoms when they try that therapy so you will have to wait and see. Lactose intolerance is not an allergy - rather an enzyme deficiency - and while supplementation may help with some of the symptoms there is no permanent or long-term solution.
Hope that helps.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
You can try the enzyme therapy now. Unless you do you would not know if your daughter will see a benefit. Many of my patients do not see much difference in their symptoms when they try that therapy so you will have to wait and see. Lactose intolerance is not an allergy - rather an enzyme deficiency - and while supplementation may help with some of the symptoms there is no permanent or long-term solution.
Hope that helps.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Is lactose intolerance treatable?
Unfortunately, there is no definitive treatment, only ways to manage the symptoms. Lactaid tabs can be tried but in my experience are not very helpful or effective. Avoidance of READ MORE
Unfortunately, there is no definitive treatment, only ways to manage the symptoms. Lactaid tabs can be tried but in my experience are not very helpful or effective. Avoidance of concentrated dairy is the only way to prevent the symptoms from occurring. Some patients find goat or sheep's milk easier to digest and it is better tolerated, but everyone is different so unless you try it, there is no way to predict it.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Is there any permanent cure for allergic rhinitis?
Dear concerned mom,
I can certainly understand your frustration. The only treatment that resembles the outcome you desire the closest is allergen immunotherapy, a.k.a allergy READ MORE
Dear concerned mom,
I can certainly understand your frustration. The only treatment that resembles the outcome you desire the closest is allergen immunotherapy, a.k.a allergy shots. That form of desensitization when administered in the hands of a properly trained and experienced allergist can help eliminate the symptoms of allergic rhinitis and dependence on medications. However, there are risks involved and it is a lengthy process, so you need to have a consult and go over the details before deciding if that is the right choice for you.
Best of luck,
Monika Korff, MD
I can certainly understand your frustration. The only treatment that resembles the outcome you desire the closest is allergen immunotherapy, a.k.a allergy shots. That form of desensitization when administered in the hands of a properly trained and experienced allergist can help eliminate the symptoms of allergic rhinitis and dependence on medications. However, there are risks involved and it is a lengthy process, so you need to have a consult and go over the details before deciding if that is the right choice for you.
Best of luck,
Monika Korff, MD
Can dog hair cause allergy for my toddler?
Dear concerned mom,
Yes, your son can certainly be tested by a certified allergist. I see such cases almost daily and we can test not only for cat and dog dander, but also other READ MORE
Dear concerned mom,
Yes, your son can certainly be tested by a certified allergist. I see such cases almost daily and we can test not only for cat and dog dander, but also other common animals that are commonly considered as pets. Your concerns can safely be addressed by taking your son for a proper allergy evaluation.
Best of luck.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Yes, your son can certainly be tested by a certified allergist. I see such cases almost daily and we can test not only for cat and dog dander, but also other common animals that are commonly considered as pets. Your concerns can safely be addressed by taking your son for a proper allergy evaluation.
Best of luck.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
I feel dizzy after thyronorm. Is it normal or will the dosage have to be altered?
I am sorry for your discomfort, but this question is best reserved for the physician who prescribed you the medication. This is not an allergic issue and side effects of medications READ MORE
I am sorry for your discomfort, but this question is best reserved for the physician who prescribed you the medication. This is not an allergic issue and side effects of medications should and can be managed most appropriately by the physician who prescribed them.
Best of luck.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Best of luck.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
What are the best ways to deal with asthma in a child?
Dear concerned mom,
Asthma is a serious condition and while there are things you can consider doing to help with your child's immune system during the winter months - plenty READ MORE
Dear concerned mom,
Asthma is a serious condition and while there are things you can consider doing to help with your child's immune system during the winter months - plenty of rest and sleep, good balanced nutrition, extra multi-vitamin and vit. C and vit. D, practice good hand hygiene - the greatest tool for success you have at your disposal is a good asthma action plan. Allergists are very good at handling asthma - be it allergic or not - so having your child evaluated and creating a good asthma action plan with a board certified allergist will be of paramount importance. Also remember that asthma is a risk factor for complications from the influenza virus so getting the flu shots (by all family members) is a must as well.
Hope that helps.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Asthma is a serious condition and while there are things you can consider doing to help with your child's immune system during the winter months - plenty of rest and sleep, good balanced nutrition, extra multi-vitamin and vit. C and vit. D, practice good hand hygiene - the greatest tool for success you have at your disposal is a good asthma action plan. Allergists are very good at handling asthma - be it allergic or not - so having your child evaluated and creating a good asthma action plan with a board certified allergist will be of paramount importance. Also remember that asthma is a risk factor for complications from the influenza virus so getting the flu shots (by all family members) is a must as well.
Hope that helps.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
What is the safe dose of cetrizine for kids around 5 years of age?
There is a range that is quite wide and safe. Cetirizine is a safe medication and sometimes if we need control of certain hard to control symptoms such as hives we can go to high READ MORE
There is a range that is quite wide and safe. Cetirizine is a safe medication and sometimes if we need control of certain hard to control symptoms such as hives we can go to high doses - 10mg or 10ml/day. I would start with 5ml (5mg) for you son and, if necessary, increase to 7.5ml or even 10ml if necessary. However, if your child is on any other medications or have other medical issues, you should check with his pediatrician first - that is the appropriate way to handle questions about medications.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
My face feels itchy. Could this be because of a food allergy?
Itchy face without any other symptoms such as swelling, hives, GI issues are not likely to be related to food allergies. Food allergies are very obvious and serious systemic reactions. READ MORE
Itchy face without any other symptoms such as swelling, hives, GI issues are not likely to be related to food allergies. Food allergies are very obvious and serious systemic reactions. While food sensitivities or even contact dermatitis to foods can be present, they are not actual allergies. Seeing an allergist who can do a thorough evaluation will be the best way to assess what is going on.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
I experience sore throats quite often. Could it be due to some kind of an allergy?
Sore throat by itself is not a sing of allergies. Post nasal drip can cause it and if allergic rhinitis is the cause for the drip then indirectly allergies can be tied in to sore READ MORE
Sore throat by itself is not a sing of allergies. Post nasal drip can cause it and if allergic rhinitis is the cause for the drip then indirectly allergies can be tied in to sore throat. Silent reflux along with colds and viruses can also cause it. If people have nasal congestion and that causes them to sleep with an open mouth, then sore throat can also be present - worse upon awakening. But if you suspect allergies, then proper evaluation by an allergist will certainly be helpful to address all of your concerns.
Hope that helps.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Hope that helps.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
How effective are air purifiers to prevent allergies for kids?
There is no evidence to suggest that HEPA air purifiers can prevent allergic sensitization. For people with already established allergies, those devices may reduce the allergy READ MORE
There is no evidence to suggest that HEPA air purifiers can prevent allergic sensitization. For people with already established allergies, those devices may reduce the allergy burden and thus improve their symptoms or make them easier to control. They also can help only with light airborne allergens such as pet dander or pollens; dust and molds being heavy are not going to be very affected by the purifiers.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Monika Korff, MD
