Is there any association between asthma and food allergies?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been living with asthma for many years, but more recently, I have also developed several food allergies, which have made managing my health a bit more complicated. I was hoping to get some clarity on the connection between asthma and food allergies. Is there a known link between these two conditions, and if so, what could be the underlying reasons for this association? Additionally, are there certain foods that are more likely to trigger both asthma and allergic reactions, which I should be particularly cautious about? I want to make sure I am taking the right precautions to avoid potential asthma attacks or severe allergic responses when it comes to my diet and overall lifestyle choices. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Asthma and food allergies both involve the immune system. Asthma involves inflammation and narrowing of the airways in response to triggers, while food allergies trigger immune responses in the gastrointestinal tract.

Proteins in foods can resemble those in allergens, potentially triggering both asthma symptoms and allergic reactions. People with asthma have a higher risk of developing food allergies.

Foods that can trigger both asthma and allergic reactions, and can cause gluten intolerance, are the following:

Shrimp.
Crab.
Lobster.
Peanuts.
Almonds.
Walnuts.
Cashews.
Fish.
Egg white.
Cow’s milk.
Soy.

Precautions that need to be taken are:

Identify trigger foods.
Read labels.
Know about your allergies to prevent accidental exposure.
Carry medications as prescribed by the treating doctor.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and adequate sleep.

If your asthma persists, it is best to get a physical examination by a treating doctor.

I hope this information will help you.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.