do foods trigger asthma attacks?

Hi Babs,

I was hoping one of our food allergy experts would weigh in here with a more definitive answer, but let me give it a stab. The short answer is "yes." Food are not commonly linked with day to day asthma symptoms, but more with severe asthma attacks. Generally, the asthma attack is part of a more generalized allergic shock called anaphylaxis.

Some foods are more well-known for triggering asthma attacks in allergic individuals than others. Sulfites, which can be found in dried fruits, wine, and many other processed food, is one of the most common culprits. 

Allergy testing can tell you more about your sensitivities to foods. If you have a history of food allergy-caused asthma attacks, you may want to talk to your doctor about carrying a self-injectable form of epinephrine, because fast treatment is essential with allergic shock.

To your health,

Kathi