Don't Scare Up Other Allergies On Halloween Night

Halloween can be a frightening time for those with allergies. And it's not just peanuts in candy that put trick-or-treaters in danger.

Allergy--and asthma triggers--may be lurking among your Halloween goodies and decorations, warns the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

"When people think of Halloween-associated allergies, they focus on candy and often overlook many other potential triggers," said Myron Zitt, M.D., former ACAAI president in a released statement. "By planning ahead, you can ensure not only safe treats, but also safe costumes, makeup, accessories and decorations."

To keep your gasps of horror from turning into gasps for breath or spine-tingling scares into skin-itching nightmares, look out for these other six potential culprits, says the ACAAI:

Ghastly gelatin -- The gelatin found in gummy bears or other candies might be a potential, though less common, allergy trigger.

Nightmarish nickel accessories -- Watch out for nickel in costume accessories, such as tiaras, magic wands, cowboy belts and pirate swords. One of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis, nickel can cause some to break out into an itchy rash.

Cobwebbed costumes -- If you are reusing an old costume, wash it first. Halloween costumes packed away since last year can harbor dust mites, which trigger asthma and allergies.

Menacing makeup -- Cheap Halloween makeup may include preservatives that can cause allergic reactions. Opt for high quality theater makeup instead. It might take a few days for an allergic reaction, such as a rash or swelling, to appear. Test the makeup on a small area of skin before the big candy-grabbing eve.

Frightful fog -- Fog, real or man-made, can trigger asthma in some.

Perilous pumpkins -- Pumpkin allergies, though rare, can cause everything from itching to chest tightness and can happen suddenly, even if you haven't had a problem before. Pumpkin picking might trigger allergy and asthma for some, as pumpkin patches are often moldy and dusty. Consider buying a pumpkin from a grocery or discount store. (Or wash your pumpkin at the farm before bringing it home.)

By keeping these things in mind, your Halloween will be fearsome for all the right reasons.