As the country is getting ready to celebrate Halloween, parents are often concerned about the health and safety of their little ones as every year, the Halloween night claims a significant number of young lives.
More than 500 American children below 14 years are killed in pedestrian accidents every year. Apart from that, according to the health experts, the candies, costumes and haunted houses can pose health risks to children with allergies and asthma.
Citing the risks, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) puts forward some recommendations for the parents to avoid their children's health risks.
"Parents of child with a food allergy carefully inspect Halloween candy, but they may overlook other common holiday items that can cause allergy and asthma symptoms," said allergist Stanley Fineman, president of the American College of allergy, Asthma and Immunology, in a news release. "There are several steps parents should take to ensure their child remains healthy and symptom-free no matter the season."
Following are some of the Halloween allergens and tips to avoid them:
- Terrifying screams and haunted houses: Children with asthma are more likely to experience excitement and anxiety with zombies, ghouls and goblins of the night. These emotions can sometimes prompt asthma symptoms in these children. As a precaution, children should be provided with their emergency medicine.
- Risks of different candies: Many Halloween treats often contain food items that cause allergies, like wheat, eggs and peanuts. Allow the child to eat the sweet only after a careful examination of the ingredients provided in the label.
- Allergy to pumpkin: Even though it's very rare, according to the experts children can develop the allergy at any time from the Jack-o-lanterns. Symptoms include chest tightness, hives and vomiting.
- Allergy through Halloween dress and make up: The costume, mask, jewelry, swords and make-up can sometimes trigger asthma symptoms.
- Jumping through piles of leaves: Mold such as Alternaria found on leaves can cause severe asthma attacks among children.
