Thanksgiving in America arrives at about the midway point of the holiday season. While tips for dealing with Halloween and Christmas issues have been widespread on the internet for years, Thanksgiving seems to get overlooked. As there is no time of year free of allergens, each holiday is known to have its own set of issues. The middle child of the Holiday season is no different. This year we hope to help remedy that by bringing you a helpful guide to help navigate the allergens and issues associated with the Thanksgiving holiday. Reading up on our asthma and allergy tips for Thanksgiving below can help ensure that this holiday season goes off without a hitch.
Asthma and Allergy Tips for Thanksgiving
Decorations:
Every year Americans spend billions on decorations for Halloween and Christmas, but only a tiny fraction of that for Thanksgiving. There are several reasons for this; first off, the decorations for Thanksgiving are usually a lot simpler and pedestrian than the skeletons and pumpkins or the trees and tinsel. Secondly, they are typically used repeatedly, year after year. For the older decorations, if not stored properly, they can collect dust and allergens that can cause severe issues to those with allergies and breathing issues. It’s a good idea to thoroughly clean and sanitize older objects when possible, always keep older decorations in an air-tight container when storing, so they will continue to last through the years. Newer decorations come with their own set of challenges. Since there is not as much demand for disposable decorations, the ones on the market tend to be made from much cheaper material than Halloween or Christmas items. Make sure to read labels, instructions, or any identifier to help avoid bringing allergy issues home for Thanksgiving.
Seasonal Allergies:
Like every other holiday, Thanksgiving has a season that brings its own share of irritants and allergy problems. With the colder weather, windows are shut, and heaters are finally turning on after a long summer. The dry air combined with the lack of circulation can spell misery for anyone with sensitive sinuses. Running a humidifier at a low setting can help moisten dry air; be sure not to overdo it. Humidity levels between 30% and 50% are suggested to help keep mold and mildew from forming, causing more issues. If you have to travel out of doors during this time, make sure to take your medication with you.
Mites and Airborne Allergens:
Thanksgiving is all about the gathering of friends and loved ones. Many travel a great distance to visit family, sleeping on couches, guest rooms, and even rented rooms. Mites and irritants can be found anywhere. So whether your stay is for a few hours or a few days, make sure to know your environment and plan ahead with what you might need to cope. If traveling, make sure to take an allergen-resistant cover, and always take along any allergen medication as well. Always ask your host about potential irritants you may be sensitive to; knowing beforehand what you are in for can make all the difference.
Stress:
It is a well-documented fact that emotional stress can have a significant impact on asthma and allergy sufferers. Remember to take it as easy as you can during this time of year. It’s always a good idea to be good to yourself as you are to others. While avoiding stressful situations can be unavoidable, make sure to give yourself some downtime after experiencing stress. Taking a walk, watching a movie, or getting a massage can all be great ways to decompress and get rid of unwanted stress.
Be Thankful:
Thanksgiving is all about celebrating the best things in life; family, friends, food, and togetherness. By taking care of any potential issues beforehand, you can focus on what you have to be thankful for.