Halloween is truly a fun time of year. While we know that you’re looking forward to putting on a stunning costume and scouring your neighborhood for the king-sized candy bars, we also want to make sure that you are staying happy and healthy so that you can enjoy this fun occasion. If you or a loved one struggles with allergies or asthma, keep the following in mind before embarking from your home on Halloween night.
Take Known Precautions
If you are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccination, it is recommended that you get the vaccination as soon as possible in order to prevent the spread of the virus. Additionally, it is beneficial to also receive your yearly flu shot to reduce your likelihood of getting sick and causing others to get sick. If you have severe allergies or asthma, it is also important that you remember to take along an inhaler, allergy medications, or a pair of epinephrine auto-injectors with you this Halloween.
Avoid Known Allergy And Asthma Triggers
You’re probably very aware of what may trigger your allergies or asthma. Though that may be the case, there are some Halloween-exclusive allergen exposures that might trigger you while you are out. Some of the most common allergy and asthma triggers that people experience around this time are:
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Leaves
Leaves often contain allergens such as mold, pollen, and other plant spores. Exposure to these can cause allergies or allergic reactions in sensitive parties.
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Animal dander
If you are going to a Halloween party at someone’s house, there is a possibility that they may have a pet that may trigger allergies. If you know that the party host has a pet that you may be allergic to, it is important that you take medical precautions before going over.
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Dry Ice
Dry ice and fog machines have a tendency to cause those with asthma to struggle in their presence. It can greatly affect the breathing of those with asthma and should be avoided if possible.
In addition to these, being scared can also trigger asthma symptoms in some people. If this frequently happens to you it may be best to avoid any overwhelmingly scary situations.
Make Sure Your Costumes Are Safe
Costumes are by far one of the most fun parts of Halloween which is why it is important to get a safe costume that enhances the fun of the night. When looking for a costume, pay close attention to the material. If the costume contains materials such as latex or nickel, it may trigger an allergic response.
As the excitement of Halloween approaches, many people may dust off an old costume to wear again. While this may be totally fine, make sure that the costume isn’t exposed to dust mites, mold, or any other allergen. The best way to do this is to carefully store all Halloween costumes that you would like to keep or re-wear.
Many costumes require the addition of face paint, makeup, or hairspray. These finishing touches can make some outfits truly pop. Before applying anything to your face or hair, make sure the ingredients don’t contain ingredients that may be irritating to the skin or cause an allergic reaction.
Understand What is in The Candy And Where It’s Been
Candy is a Halloween staple, but those with food allergies need to pay close attention to the candies that they consume. Nuts, which are a common food allergy, are incorporated into many different candies that may be given out on Halloween. Before eating a piece of candy, first read the label and make sure that it doesn’t contain any ingredients that you are allergic to. If you feel as though there is a possibility it could have been cross-contaminated with an ingredient you are allergic to, it may be best to not consume it.
Along with monitoring your food consumption on Halloween, it is also important to come prepared. Bring an epinephrine auto-injector with you if needed or any other allergy or asthma medication so that you can be ready in case anything goes wrong.
Stay safe and healthy this Halloween!
