Understanding Food Allergies and Asthma

If you have a food allergy, the reaction can sometimes feel a lot like asthma symptoms. And if it's severe enough, it can trigger an asthma attack. Knowing which foods might be a problem can help you avoid flare-ups and breathe easier.

The most common foods that cause allergies include eggs, cow's milk, peanuts, soy, wheat, fish, shrimp, and tree nuts.

Preservatives found in products such as dried fruits, packaged potatoes, wine, and picked foods can also cause an allergic reaction. These include sodium bisulfite, potassium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, potassium metabisulfite, and sodium sulfite.

For most people, food allergies cause hives, rash, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you have food allergies that trigger an asthma attack, you will likely experience coughing and wheezing. If not treated quickly, your throat may swell and block your airway (anaphylaxis), which can be life-threatening.

Avoid known food triggers, read food labels, and ask about food preparation methods when dining out. Always carry two epinephrine auto-injectors for emergencies. You can also ask your doctor about immunotherapy to become less sensitive to allergens.