I DRINK A CUP OF COFFEE AND IT HELPS MY BREATHING, I DRINK IT STRAIGHT NO SUGAR OR CREAM, 1 CUP.

Hi Cory,

The answer is yes. The caffeine in coffee has a bronchodilating effect similar to theophylline, a drug used to treat asthma. This means it is able to relax the small muscles in the lung airway walls that often constrict when asthma is active.

A strong cup of coffee may have more than 250 milligrams of caffeine in it. The benefit to the lungs may peak 2 hours after drinking coffee, and fade in 4 hrs. Better results are achieved with higher doses of caffeine but this is associated with increased risk of headache, palpitations, irritability, insomnia, nausea and nervousness. High caffeine consumption is not considered good for your health. Some people have increased sensitivity to caffeine related adverse effects.

Medications prescribed for treatment of asthma are more effective and safer than drinking multiple cups of coffee.

Read about asthma medications by clicking on the hyperlink.

Good Luck,

J. Thompson, MD

In my case, coffee is my "comfort" food.  It helps me relax and then, in turn helps me to control my breathing.