Living Well With Asthma | Page 10

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.