Asthma and allergies have always had a tight relationship. Most people with asthma are also “atopic” – meaning they have an allergy of some sort. A recent clinical journal explored the cozy relationship between food allergies and asthma. Here are some highlights:
- In a recent survey of people with asthma, 73% say they believe food has triggered asthma symptoms
- A cause and effect relationship between asthma and food allergies could not be proven – but we do know the conditions often coexist
- In the “National Cooperative Inner City Asthma Study” – a whopping 45% of the patients with asthma also had a sensitivity to food
- Coexisting food allergy and asthma can complicate the prognosis for either or both conditions – extra care is required
- Milk, egg, wheat, soy, peanut, and fish are the most common food allergies to look out for
So, what’s the action item here?
If you or your child have asthma or food allergy – it may be a good idea to talk to your doctor about being watchful for the other. It’s also important for you to understand and know how to treat an acute asthma episode that may be triggered by a food allergy, or anaphylaxis – which may occur due to food-allergy reaction.
The national asthma guidelines provide an excellent roadmap for controlling asthma – for people with or without food allergies. Check out our overview of these guidelines: HERE
Remember, that only a well-trained and licensed health professional can test for food allergies!
Medscape review of article: HERE
Geek link (original journal article): HERE
August 3, 2011 at 5:04 pm
Thank you for posting this! I have so many allergies, I’ve gone to three different allergists and all 3 to my surprise – the test for food allergies/and basics; outdoor, dogs, cats, pollen, dust, etc were shocking. Over 60% of the everyday foods alone – came back positive! The doctor mentioned that was rare to be allergic to so many foods but did note saying it’s very important to eat a variety of foods since your body (like medications) can build up a tolerance for them. When I was a kid, never had any problems with milk, eggs and turkey. Now I have to be very careful! Always wise to check all food labels! Even if it’s a product/brand you’ve always bought and known to trust; if the label is new, the ingredients may have changed.