A combined response of indigestion and shortness of breath may be generated by an allergic reaction to a food or drug. While underlying conditions can cause one symptom or the other, both together strongly indicate inflammation and other disturbances of the gastrointestinal tract.
Most allergy symptoms produce discomfort for only an hour or two and then disappear.
Complications of common drug or food allergies can occur, however, with potentially more serious health consequences. Patients who suspect allergies of causing their symptoms should seek a diagnosis, in order to prevent medical emergencies.
Common Food Allergy
Allergic reactions to foods such as nuts and fish and drugs such as insulin and penicillin create similar symptoms. Some effects, such as eye, mouth and skin itching, begin immediately after ingestion, according to MayoClinic.com. Swelling in these areas usually follows, which can lead to trouble swallowing and shortness of breath.
Food allergies may cause mucus buildup and nasal congestion, which further inhibit breathing. Food and drug allergens can induce indigestion allergy symptoms that include sensations of nausea, stomach pain and cramps. Vomiting and diarrhea may occur in an attempt to expel allergens from the body.
Allergic Asthma
Not all respiratory allergy symptoms occur in conjunction with food allergies alone. Allergic asthma can produce elevated breathing symptoms in response to food and drug allergens. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, this common form of asthma affects more than half of all asthma patients, many of whom have formed antibodies to specific foods and drugs.
Upon exposure to problem substances, asthma conditions can arise suddenly. Patients may cough, wheeze, feel tightness in the chest and experience shortness of breath. If patients do not control severe asthma attacks with medication, they can suffer respiratory arrest, organ failure and death.
Anaphylaxis
In rare complications of regular food allergies or asthmatic allergic reactions, anaphylaxis can arise. This potentially fatal group of health effects can precede or accompany allergy symptoms of indigestion. As the AAFA explains, anaphylaxis occurs when the airways close and the blood vessels open, creating restricted breathing and a sharp drop in blood pressure.
People who experience an initial allergic reaction to a food or who have only exhibited mild symptoms in the past still risk anaphylaxis any time they contact the problem allergen. Patients must avoid the foods or drugs that cause their illnesses.
