Alcohol and Asthma: What You Need to Know

The coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing during an asthma attack can be both uncomfortable and frightening. Asthma affects approximately 26 million people in the U.S.—about 1 in 13 individuals. While triggers vary from person to person, common ones include air pollution, allergens, and stress. But what about alcohol? Is there a link between drinking and asthma symptoms?

Understanding Asthma

Asthma is a chronic condition that inflames and narrows the airways in the lungs, making breathing difficult. During an attack, airways swell, produce excess mucus, and tighten, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing.

Triggers differ for everyone but often include:

• Air irritants (pollution, chemicals, smoke)
• Allergens (dust mites, mold, pet dander)
• Exercise
• Stress
• Extreme weather

Asthma severity ranges from occasional mild symptoms to frequent, life-threatening attacks.

Research on Alcohol and Asthma

Studies show that alcohol can worsen asthma symptoms and even trigger attacks. One study found that 33% of participants experienced an asthma attack after drinking alcohol, with most symptoms starting within an hour. Researchers point to three main reasons:

• Histamine Resemblance: Alcohol fermentation produces histamines, chemicals that cause allergic reactions. Red wine is particularly high in histamines, which can trigger asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals.
• Sulfite Sensitivity: Sulfites, common preservatives in alcoholic drinks like wine and beer, can cause allergic reactions. Up to 10% of people with asthma are sensitive to sulfites.
• Acid Reflux: Alcohol can lead to acid reflux, where stomach acid enters the esophagus and breathing tubes. The body may produce excess mucus in response, worsening breathing difficulties.

Additionally, alcohol can increase stress and anxiety, which are known asthma triggers for many people.

Are Any Alcoholic Drinks Safe for Asthma?

Some beverages may be less likely to trigger symptoms. Red wine, high in both sulfites and histamines, is the most common culprit. White wine generally contains fewer of these compounds, and organic wines often have no added sulfites. Clear spirits like gin and vodka are typically sulfite-free, but beer, though lower in sulfites than wine, can still cause issues.

The amount consumed also matters. You might tolerate one drink but react to several. If you have asthma, limiting or avoiding alcohol is generally wise.

Key Takeaways

While more research is needed, current evidence suggests alcohol can aggravate asthma and provoke attacks. If you drink, monitor your breathing closely and note any changes. If alcohol triggers symptoms, consider eliminating it. Remember, if stress and anxiety affect your asthma, alcohol may worsen these conditions.

If you're finding it challenging to manage your alcohol consumption, consider Quitemate. This resource has helped many people reduce their drinking and build healthier habits.