Asthma is a long-term or chronic lung disease where the lungs can become inflamed causing narrowing of the airways making it significantly difficult to breath. Symptoms of asthma usually include chest pain, shortness of breath, and coughing.
Different foods would rarely cause asthma. However, some symptoms of an allergic reaction with foods can be very similar to asthma symptoms and be a source of confusion. It is important to know if you have any food allergies or food intolerance. A food allergy is when the immune system reacts to different proteins in the foods that are typically safe or harmless. Food intolerance occurs with your body responds to the food, such as reactions to chemicals in foods or drinks, and not the immune system.
Different types of foods that are most commonly associated with allergic symptoms are: eggs, cow’s milk, peanuts, soy, wheat, fish, shellfish, and treenuts.
Food intolerances with preservatives in foods can trigger a reaction and lead to an asthma attack. Examples of such additives are: sodium bisulfite, potassium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, and potassium metabisulfite. These food preservatives are used in dried fruits or vegetables, packaged potatoes, wine and beer, bottled lime or lemon juice, and picked foods.
Some simple ways to prevent food allergies and asthma are:
If you have any concerns with your asthma and or allergies, give our team at Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group a call at 805-658-9500 today. Our team of Asthma, Allergy, and Immunologist professionals are ready to help you.