With Christmas just around the corner, health precautions usually take a back seat with all the shopping and excitement that comes with the festive season.
However, with a little precautions and extra care, mishaps pertaining to allergies because of food, dust and other health hazards that can take place during this time of the year can be avoided.
"Allergy and asthma triggers can be difficult to escape during the holidays, especially if you are attending several social gatherings," allergist Richard Weber, president-elect of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, said in a news release. "But by planning ahead and treating your symptoms before they start, you can have a sneeze-free holiday season."
ACAAI has issued a few tips that could help to avoid health risks for a safer holiday season. According to a news letter released by them, these are a few tips people can follow:
* Avoid scented air fresheners and go for natural aromas- Most of the scented air fresheners contain a group of chemicals called volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that trigger asthma in children. According to the allergists, keeping the window open for a while is a better option than the artificial air fresheners.
* Take appropriate steps to avoid Pet allergies while visiting relatives. Consult an allergist in advance and seek advice.
* Careful in choosing food- Ensure that the food is fully free from any allergy causing ingredients like peanuts or shellfish. It's better to go for an unstuffed meat, as allergens in stuffing often are absorbed by the meat.
* Avoid exchanging gifts that causes allergy- Allergy causing ingredients can be found in products like accessories (nickel), candies (nuts) or perfumes. Gifting books, wine glasses or dessert plates are better options than these products.
* Take extra precaution while selecting decor- Avoid using previous year's decorations if they are not kept in airtight containers. Artificial trees, wreaths and garlands are better than natural ones as some people are allergic to poinsettias and terpene found in the sap of Christmas trees.
