Valentine’s Day is just a couple of weeks away! Picking out the perfect gift for your spouse or partner can always be a little stressful but can be even more complicated if they have allergies.
Let’s take a look at what gifts you should avoid, as well as some alternative options for loved ones with allergies.
Gifts To Avoid If Your Partner Has Allergies
Unfortunately, some of the most common Valentine’s Day gifts can be major triggers for someone with allergies. This includes:
- Flowers. Flowers can contain pollen and mold which can worsen allergy and asthma symptoms. Popular choices like tulips, hyacinths, lilies, roses and chrysanthemums have all been linked to allergic symptoms and contact dermatitis.
- Chocolate. Many chocolates either contain or come into contact with dairy, nuts and other common allergens that can affect those with food allergies.
- Jewelry. Many pieces of jewelry like bracelets and rings contain nickel, which can cause rashes and flare-ups in people with skin allergies.
- Perfume and cologne. Items with strong scents can irritate the airways in people who have allergies or asthma. It may also irritate their skin. This is true for things like shower gels, scented lotions and essential oils as well.
Allergy-friendly Gift Ideas
Now obviously, not everyone with allergies has the same triggers. You may have a partner with food allergies who has no problem with flowers. Knowing someone’s specific allergens is essential to getting them a safe gift. If you are unsure or don’t want to risk getting them something that may cause their allergy symptoms, consider these allergy-safe ideas instead:
- Homemade gifts like a scrapbook, playlist or a framed photo
- Activity-based dates, like going to a movie or taking a dance class at Huntsville Ballroom
- Cooking a meal for them at home so you can be sure it doesn’t contain any of their allergy triggers
The Importance of Treating Allergies
If your loved one has allergy symptoms that aren’t well controlled by over-the-counter medications or if they experience odd symptoms like developing rashes or nasal congestion with no obvious cause, encourage them to schedule an appointment with an allergist. They can perform allergy testing and help identify what is causing their reactions, as well as how best to treat their allergies.
If you would like more information or wish to schedule an appointment with one of our experts, call North Alabama ENT Associates today.