Fenugreek will not trigger an asthma attack unless you have an allergic reaction to the herb. Fenugreek has been used as a flavor in various food products and also is sold as a dietary supplement. Common medical uses of the herb include the treatment of eczema, wounds, inflammation and boils. Fenugreek has not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for effectiveness, safety or purity. Before taking fenugreek to treat any medical condition, you need to talk with your doctor. If you develop asthmatic symptoms while using fenugreek, discontinue use until you can be seen by your health care provider.
Allergic Asthma
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America states that almost half the people who have food allergies also have asthma. The type of asthma that is induced by food allergies is commonly more deadly and severe than other forms of asthma. Asthma attacks that are triggered by an allergic reaction to fenugreek can lead to the inability to breathe, shortness of breath, trouble breathing, chest pain, wheezing and coughing. Most of these symptoms are mild to severe, depending on the severity of the allergy. Most asthmatic symptoms develop within a few minutes of consuming fenugreek.
Allergic Reaction Cause
Although rare, allergic reactions to fenugreek have been reported, according to Drugs.com. During an allergic reaction to fenugreek, your body's immune system overreacts to the substance because it identifies it as a dangerous substance. This mistake causes the body to react by attacking the fenugreek with antibodies that work to rid the body of the herb. The antibodies, in turn, trigger mast cells to produce histamine, a chemical that helps prevent infection. Histamine created in soft tissue leads to irritation, swelling and inflammation. Histamine released in your lungs will cause asthmatic symptoms.
Severe Allergy
Most asthma attacks related to orally ingested foods and herbs are more severe than other types of asthmatic reactions, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. A severe allergy is referred to as anaphylaxis, which sends your body into a state of shock. During anaphylaxis, your entire body develops an allergic reaction, which causes your airways to swell, your throat to swell, a drop in blood pressure, flushing, severe stomach pain, dizziness, lightheadedness and rapid heart rate.
Treatment
Because most cases of allergy induced asthma are commonly severe, an injection of epinephrine may be required. This medication, which is synthetic adrenalin, causes inflammation in the lungs and throughout the body to subside temporarily. You will need to avoid any future ingestion of fenugreek to prevent this reaction from recurring.
