Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the air passages. One of the most common types of asthma is known as atopic or allergic asthma. Atopic asthma can be triggered by a number of allergens, including food allergies.

Food allergies are normally demonstrated by symptoms such as nausea, hives, rash, diarrhea and vomiting. Common foods that can cause these symptoms are  - eggs, cow’s milk, peanuts, soy, wheat, fish, shrimp and other shellfish, salads, and sometimes, fresh fruits. These foods can not only cause food allergies, but can trigger asthma attacks as well. A possible theory behind this is that food allergens can travel from the digestive tract to the lungs through the blood streams, where they facilitate the release of certain chemicals in the blood. These chemicals irritate the muscles around air passages, thus narrowing the tracks and obstructing airflow. This causes difficulty in breathing, and thus generates asthma episodes.  The condition worsens when the air passages swell and abnormal mucus secretion takes place - blocking the airways furthermore, and triggering severe asthma attacks.

The initial symptoms of asthma attacks triggered by food allergens are the same as those of the allergy itself, followed by coughing and wheezing.  If a person suspects, or experiences, symptoms as such, it is important to consult a doctor immediately to prevent the possibility of a life-threatening asthma attack.