Witches, zombies and vampires lurking around every corner make for a scary Halloween. However, for parents of allergy- and asthma-sufferers, there are triggers in disguise that can put an evil spell on all the fun. The best parts of Halloween—like treats, costumes, and decorations—can create scary symptoms. Use these tricks to avoid these Top 10 Halloween Allergy Triggers and have an asthma & allergy free Halloween.
Food Allergies
What's the best part of trick-or-treating? For most kids, it's dumping out your goodie bag of yummy treats at the end of the night.
But for children allergic to foods like nuts, dairy, chocolate, certain dyes, or even soy, parents are forced to examine labels. Help alleviate parental fears and make their task easier by giving out allergen-free treats like:
- Swedish Fish
- Mott’s Medleys fruit snacks
- Black Forest Gummy Worms
- Ring Pops
Treat small goblins to healthy snacks like apples, Craisin, or raisin boxes. This will ensure all of your trick-or-treaters can enjoy something sweet. Consider placing a Teal Pumpkin on your porch to let the kids know your treats are safe. Learn more about the Teal Pumpkin Project here.
Costumes and Masks
Some masks and costumes may contain latex, nickel, and other allergens, so carefully read labels on costumes and accessories. It's best to avoid masks that are stored for long periods of time as they collect dust mites and other allergens while in storage. If a mask is an absolute must for your Halloween costume, consider half masks or use hypoallergenic makeup to “paint” your mask directly on your face. Even new costumes can carry dust mites so make sure to launder them before wearing.
Hair Dye, Perfume, & Other Chemicals
Not all allergens are airborne. Some people suffer from chemical sensitivities of the skin that can be aggravated by hair dye and perfumes. Wigs and costumes can also be a source of chemical irritants. Wear them over your own clothing whenever possible. If you or your child suffer from skin sensitivities or eczema, make sure to use hypoallergenic products free of potential irritants.
Hay Bales, Corn Mazes, & Fallen Leaves
While it may be fun, those who suffer from allergies and asthma should avoid hay rides or trampling through that big pile of leaves you raked up last weekend. Hay bales and large piles of leaves contain significant amounts of mold spores and tree pollen that can send you into a sneezing fit or trigger an asthma attack.
Fall Allergens
Autumn also brings its fair share of seasonal allergen triggers. If you are allergic to ragweed or the pesky mold spores lingering in piles of dry leaves, make sure to take the appropriate allergy medication before heading out on your moonlight odyssey.
Fog Machines
While they add just the right amount of spooky ambiance to Halloween decor, water based fog machines frequently contain the chemical glycol which can lower air oxygen levels, irritate the respiratory system, and trigger asthma attacks. Some fog machines use 'liquid air' rather than water and are far safer than their counterparts for asthma sufferers.
Haunted Houses
We all enjoy having the daylights scared out of us at Halloween, and what better way than a spooky haunted house. Unfortunately, scary environments have the potential to elevate excitement and anxiety levels that can trigger asthma attacks. Many haunted houses also contain fog machines that compound the problem. Make sure you have an inhaler on hand if you plan on visiting a haunted house.
Cold Air
The arrival of fall means cooler temperatures during the evening. Consider adding an extra layer of clothing under that costume or toting along some hand warmers. Cooler nighttime air can trigger an asthma attack - so make sure to monitor the weather and bundle up before you begin your ghostly adventure.
Pumpkins
While very rare, a small percentage of the population is allergic to pumpkins. For some, just carving or touching a pumpkin is enough to trigger anaphylaxis. If you have a small child with a pumpkin allergy, or it is unknown whether they are allergic to pumpkins, we recommend keeping a close eye on them. Make sure they understand they should avoid contact, and to enjoy the neighborhood Jack-O-Lanterns at a safe distance.
Visiting Other Homes
While you are out trick-or-treating, you or your children may be invited in by a neighbor for a goblet of witch's brew or to tour their backyard haunted maze. There may be cigarette smoke, dust, or pet dander that could trigger an allergy or asthma attack and spoil the night. Just keep it in mind before you dive right in!
Emergency Plan
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, if your child is trick-or-treating with a group of friends and has a severe or life-threatening allergy, place emergency medicines like an inhaler or inject-able epinephrine in his or her tote bag. If another parent is accompanying your child, make sure that the parent is aware that your child has allergies and/or asthma. In these cases, it might be a good idea to trust the accompanying parent with your child's medications. Additionally, if your child's symptoms are severe enough, make sure that he or she wears a medical alert ID bracelet or chain stating the diagnosis.
Have a safe and howling-good Halloween! If you have any other suggestions for how to avoid allergens, tell us about them in comments below or reach out on Facebook and Twitter.
