Halloween is a fun-filled time for children and adults alike, but for the 100 million who experience allergy symptoms, it can come with unexpected triggers. Popular Halloween activities may expose you to allergens like pollen, mold and dust, potentially causing unexpected allergic symptoms.
Fortunately, with a few precautions, you can enjoy the Halloween festivities while minimizing allergic reactions. Here are some tips to help you avoid common Halloween allergy triggers.
Pollen and Hayrides
Hayrides are a fun Halloween tradition, but they can be aggravating for those with seasonal allergies. Hay and straw, often used for decoration or seating on hayrides, are notorious for harboring pollen, which can trigger sneezing, itchy eyes and other symptoms. Additionally, being outdoors during fall means exposure to lingering pollen in the air, especially from ragweed.
To minimize exposure, try to schedule outdoor activities like hayrides during the late afternoon or evening when pollen levels tend to be lower. If your allergies are particularly sensitive, consider taking an over-the-counter antihistamine before heading out to hayrides or other outdoor events. Additionally, following the outing, remove and wash all clothing and shower to remove pollen and other allergens.
Mold from Pumpkins
Pumpkin carving is a beloved Halloween activity, that can also expose you to mold. Once pumpkins are cut open, they can quickly become breeding grounds for mold spores, especially if left outside or in humid environments. These mold spores can trigger allergy symptoms such as coughing, sneezing and congestion.
To reduce the risk, try to carve your pumpkin from Lever Farms just a day or two before Halloween to limit the time mold has to develop. Additionally consider using battery-operated lights instead of candles to prevent additional moisture from building up. You may also consider composting or removing pumpkins before they have the time to rot and mold following the holiday.
Alternatively, if mold is a serious concern, consider using plastic or foam pumpkins for your decorations, which can be reused year after year without the risk of mold exposure.
Dust from Halloween Decorations
Pulling Halloween decorations out of storage often means encountering dust, which can easily trigger allergies. Decorations that have been sitting in boxes for months are likely coated in dust mites, a common allergen that can trigger allergy symptoms. Some decorations may also accumulate mold if stored in damp areas like basements or attics.
Before decorating, wipe down or wash items to remove dust and other allergens. Using a vacuum with a HEPA filter can help capture dust mites while cleaning. When storing decorations after Halloween, use sealed containers as opposed to cardboard boxes to keep dust and mold at bay for next year.
While Halloween activities may present allergy challenges, they don’t have to ruin the fun. By taking simple steps to avoid allergens, much like any season, you can enjoy the festivities with fewer symptoms.
To learn more about allergy management or to schedule a consultation for you or a loved one, contact Carolina Pines ENT today.