Halloween survival involves more than dodging zombies and avoiding tummy aches – especially for little ghosts and goblins with allergies and asthma. But unlike eluding the walking dead, avoiding allergy and asthma triggers requires a strategy to ensure a fun and safe holiday. “Steering clear of candy with peanuts is just a start,” said allergist Dr. Steven McEldowney, Allergy and Asthma Care of Blakeney. “There are several steps parents need to take to make sure Halloween is not a frightful experience for kids with allergies and asthma.” Dr. McEldowney, a specialist in diagnosing and treating allergies and asthma, and the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) suggest the following to side step (sometimes surprising!) triggers:

Charlotte, NC – As if a runny nose and red eyes weren’t enough to ruin your warm weather look, summer allergies can bestow even more than you’ve bargained for this year. In fact, some unusual symptoms can leave you looking like you lost a round in a boxing ring.

CHARLOTTE, NC. (March 27, 2014) – Spring cleaning can be more than a daunting chore for those with allergies and asthma. Dust, pet hair and cleaning supplies can leave you reaching for the tissues instead of the broom. But according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), spring cleaning can also help you avoid allergy symptoms. “When pollen counts are high outdoors, you may be inclined to stay indoors to try and avoid allergy symptoms,” said allergist Dr. Steven McEldowney, Allergy and Asthma Care of Blakeney. “But seasonal allergy symptoms can last all year round for those allergic to indoor allergens.” Relief can sometimes be as simple as knowing how to remove allergens from the home. Dr. McEldowney and the ACAAI have put together useful tips for removing allergens in the home, and ways to avoid accidentally letting more in.