Halloween Can Cause Allergic Reactions

Posted by Christine Nyholm Oct 28, 2008

Allergies are an immune system disorder that sometimes limits the activities of the allergic person. As Halloween is on our doorstep, I am reminded of some of the hazards of this popular holiday. Parents of children with allergies let them go trick or treating, or to parties, hoping that the children will know enough to say no to questionable foods and drinks.

Costumes themselves can cause allergic reactions. I have personally had a severe reactions, on separate occasions, to green face paint and to a costume that had been languishing in an attic too long.

The furry cute costume harbored dust and who knows what else. Even though we tumbled is in the clothes drier, the musty smell remained. I knew enough to say no, but my future mother-in-law assured me it was okay. She was well meaning, but I allowed her to talk me into something, even though I knew better.

One of the troubles with exposure is that allergic reactions do not go away immediately after the offending substance is removed. After the disastrous skunk costume fiasco, I was sick for a week.

Allergic reactions can progress into full blown respiratory episodes and even into bronchitis. Skin reactions can cause itching and swelling that takes days to go away.

Halloween fun often includes mysterious foods, colored with food dyes to make unnatural orange cupcakes and black frostings. Candies themselves may harbor allergens, such as peanuts. Peanut Allergies in Children Require Vigilance

Children and adults need to take care of themselves when taking part in this holiday, when foods and refreshments of unknown origins may be served. Halloween Food Allergy Safety Tips

Watch out for allergens in costumes, foods and refreshments. Allergic People Take Care on Halloween