Hidden Halloween allergy and asthma triggers are truly frightful
Steer clear of triggers you may not have known existed.
- Find an Allergist
- Symptom Test
- Ask the Allergist
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL (September 18, 2019) – For some families, Halloween means being on guard for food allergy triggers like peanuts in tiny candy bars. Some fun-sized bars contain no labels to alert you to allergens, so parents must be on the lookout. The ingredients can change depending on the size, so while a full-size bar might be safe for someone with a food allergy, the smaller version could contain allergens not marked on the package. But peanuts in candy bars aren’t the only hidden allergens kids with allergies and asthma need to watch for to stay alert to Halloween frights.
“Halloween happens in the fall, so trick or treating involves being aware of fall allergies,” says allergist Todd Mahr, MD, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “You need to add fall allergy triggers to your list of things to be aware of as you and your child with allergies or asthma prepare for Halloween fun. But your family can still get out and howl the night away. With the right preparations in place, you only need fear ghosts and goblins, not fall allergens like ragweed pollen and mold.”
The following four tips from ACAAI will help you prepare for Halloween and make sure your tiniest witches and super heroes are safe from allergic flares.
If allergies or asthma are holding your child back, it’s time to take control. See an allergist for expert care and relief. Use the ACAAI allergist locator to find an allergist in your area.