Shellfish Allergy and Asthma: What to Do About Chest Tightness and Wheezing After Eating
Food allergy can be one of the triggers of an asthma attack. The order of handling is to steady the breathing first, then look for the cause.
Possible links
Some people with asthma develop coughing, chest tightness or worse wheezing after contact with a food they are sensitised to. Food is not the only trigger of asthma. House dust mite, pollen, cold air, exercise and infection also need to be considered at the same time.
Order of handling during an attack
- Stop eating at once and move away from the possible trigger environment
- Use your reliever medicine as your doctor has previously instructed
- Sit upright, relax your breathing and reduce activity
- If there is no improvement after using the medicine, or if speaking becomes difficult, the lips turn blue, or the person becomes less responsive, call 120 (the emergency number in China) at once
Everyday management advice
Write the shellfish avoidance requirements into the asthma action plan and share it with family and teachers. Have regular follow-up visits to assess the level of control and the treatment plan. Keep a timeline of eating and symptoms to help the doctor judge how much food plays a part. Do not widen the range of foods avoided on your own without an assessment.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If your symptoms affect daily life, please see a doctor.