Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! Perfumes, flowers, and food items are all common Valentine’s Day gifts, but they may not be well received by those with allergies.
While shopping for your loved one for Valentine’s Day or planning a special date, be sure to show you care by taking their allergies or asthma into account.
Common Allergy and Asthma Triggers in Valentine’s Day Gifts
While some of the most popular gifts are chocolates, flowers, or perfumes, many of these products contain allergens and asthma triggers. Some common products, meals, and activities to avoid include:
Food Gifts and Dinner Date Allergens
While a romantic dinner sounds nice, it’s important to avoid meals with shellfish, which is a common allergen. Peanut and nut allergies should also be considered, as nuts are often included in chocolates and desserts.
There are a variety of food allergens out there, so be sure to speak with your valentine before making dinner reservations, cooking them a meal, or buying them a sweet treat to ensure it is safe for them to enjoy.
Inhalation Allergens to Avoid
Cut flowers are a great gift, but pollens can cause issues for someone with allergies. Other gifts such as perfumes or colognes can also cause an allergic reaction. Scented candles or a wood fire might set a pleasant mood for your special date, but they can also trigger allergies.
Skin Allergens to Avoid
Nickel-plated jewelry can cause some people to have an allergic reaction. Latex products are also another common skin allergen to avoid. Keep in mind that certain cosmetics, moisturizers, and massage oils or lotions, can also trigger an allergic reaction.
Asthma Triggers and Activities
Laughter and stress can trigger asthma. Be sure to speak with your valentine about their asthma triggers while planning activities for your date.
Allergy-Friendly Gift and Date Ideas for Your Valentine
Don’t let allergies bring down the day! We’ve put together some of the best allergy-friendly gifts that your loved one can enjoy:
- Coupon book with coupons such as “free kiss” or “candlelight dinner.”
- Love notes placed throughout the house
- Handmade valentine card
- A framed photo of you two together
- Nickel-free jewelry
- Game night
- Movie night (with allergy-safe snacks)
- New book
- Cook a new recipe together
- Paint pictures together or try a new craft (avoiding any supplies that could trigger allergies)
Have Questions About Valentine’s Day Allergens? Contact Us Today!
If you have questions about what to avoid this Valentine’s Day that could trigger your allergies or asthma, or if you need to schedule an appointment, contact our experts today to learn more!