LIVING WELL WITH ASTHMA
Food and Medicine
Allergies
How can you deal with food or
medicine allergies to prevent airway
inflammation or swelling?
Many people with asthma report
problems with eating certain types of
foods. This is especially true of foods
that contain sulfites, such as beer,
wine, shrimp, and processed potatoes.
Some medicines can also cause
problems, especially aspirin and betablockers, which can be contained in
some heart medicines and eyedrops.
•
Talk with your health-care provider
or pharmacist about all prescription
or over-the-counter medications
you take, as well as vitamins and
herbal supplements to find out
if any of them could affect your
asthma.
•
Stay away from any food or
medicine that makes your asthma
worse.
•
Be careful to avoid eating foods
that contain sulfites.
•
•
Read food labels.
Stress and Emotions
Stress and strong emotions are
common asthma triggers. Some people
find that laughing or crying can set off
symptoms, and research also indicates
that stress – especially chronic stress –
can increase inflammation.
8
Use substitute medicines
when appropriate, such as
acetaminophen instead of aspirin.
How can you reduce stress?
•
Think about the different events or
situations in your life that cause you
to feel stressed and take steps to
reduce them wherever possible.
•
Use stress management techniques,
such as meditation and yoga.
•
Develop a regular exercise program
and healthy eating habits.
•
Spend time with friends and family,
as research shows healthy social
interaction reduces stress.