wine and asthma

[Bucko]

Histamine in wine has been associated with triggering a wide spectrum of adverse symptoms, including sneezing, rhinitis, itching, flushing, headache and asthma. The sulphites in wine have also been associated with triggering asthmatic responses. Clinical studies have confirmed sensitivities to the sulphites in wine in LIMITED numbers of individuals, but the extent to which the sulphites contribute to wine sensitivity overall is NOT clear. The etiology of wine-induced asthmatic responses may be complex and may involve several co-factors -- it is most likely not the wine exclusively.