© Comstock Images / Comstock / Thinkstock-
Many American teenagers, including some with a normal, healthy weight, already have one or more risk factors for heart disease, researchers say.More >> Many American teenagers, including some with a normal, healthy weight, already have one or more risk factors for heart disease, researchers say.More >> Drowning kills more American children 1 to 4 years old than any cause except birth defects, according to a new federal report.More >> Drowning kills more American children 1 to 4 years old than any cause except birth defects, according to a new federal report.More >> In addition to over-the-counter and prescription medications, there are a few additional moves that can help ease the sniffles, sneezes and watery eyes of seasonal allergies.More >> In addition to over-the-counter and prescription medications, there are a few additional moves that can help ease the sniffles, sneezes and watery eyes of seasonal allergies.More >> A preliminary study links chemicals found in certain sunscreens to a higher risk of endometriosis.More >> A preliminary study links chemicals found in certain sunscreens to a higher risk of endometriosis, but it's too soon to say whether there's any reason for women to change their habits.More >> It was the small square photo clipped to an applicant's resume that most influenced whether a woman would be hired. More >> It was the small square photo clipped to an applicant's resume that most influenced whether a woman would be hired. But there was a hidden catch: The pictures showed the same six women both before and after weight-loss.More >> Children with autism given a squirt of a nasal spray containing the hormone oxytocin showed more activity in brain regions involved with processing social information.More >> Children with autism given a squirt of a nasal spray containing the hormone oxytocin showed more activity in brain regions known to be involved with processing social information, a small study found.More >> Dinosaurs may have suffered from arthritis, new research says.More >> Dinosaurs may have suffered from arthritis, new research says.More >> Should Americans be able to buy a test at the drugstore and use it to determine whether they're infected with the virus that causes AIDS?More >> Should Americans be able to buy a test at the drugstore and use it to determine whether they're infected with the virus that causes AIDS?More >> It can be difficult during the spring months for parents to determine whether their children have a cold or seasonal allergies.More >> It can be difficult during the spring months for parents to determine whether their children have a cold or seasonal allergies, but an expert outlines how to tell the difference.More >> Young adults with an autism spectrum disorder are less likely to continue their education or get a job after high school.More >> Young adults with an autism spectrum disorder are less likely to continue their education or get a job after high school when compared to young adults with other disabilities, new research indicates.More >>
SATURDAY, Oct. 1 (HealthDay News) -- Halloween candy may contain some obvious allergens, but there are many more unexpected allergy and asthma triggers that can pose a threat to trick-or-treaters, including dusty costumes, fog machines and makeup, according to experts from the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI).
"When people think of Halloween-associated allergies, they focus on candy and often overlook many other potential triggers," said Dr. Myron Zitt, former ACAAI president in a news release. "By planning ahead, you can ensure not only safe treats, but also safe costumes, makeup, accessories and decorations."
The ACAAI advised parents to be on the lookout for six potential allergy and asthma triggers they may not be expecting, including:
- Gelatin. Although it's a less common trigger, research published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology shows gummy bears and other candies may contain this potential allergen. Parents can have their child tested for specific allergies and develop a food allergy treatment plan. They may also want to have some non-candy treats, such as stickers or small toys, on hand to swap for candy.
- Nickel. Costume details and accessories, such as belts, tiaras and swords may contain nickel -- one of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis, which can make skin itchy.
- Dust mites. Old costumes packed away in attics or closets may be filled with dust mites, which trigger asthma and allergies. Parents should either buy or make new costumes or wash old ones before kids put them on.
- Makeup. Some types of face and body makeup may include preservatives that may cause allergic reactions. Buying higher quality theater makeup can help avoid this trigger. Also be sure to test the makeup on a small patch of skin before applying it over a larger area of skin at least a few days before Halloween.
- Fog. Real fog or fog machines can trigger asthma in some people.
- Pumpkins. Allergies to pumpkins are rare, but they can develop suddenly -- especially when they are moldy or dusty. As a result, pumpkins purchased at a grocery or discount stores are less likely to trigger an allergy.
More information
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides more information on asthma in children.
Copyright © 2011 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
All
content © Copyright 2000 - 2012 WorldNow and WBRC, a
Raycom Media
Station.
