Halloween should be full of tricks and treats, not coughs and wheezes!

As the nights grow chilly and the pumpkins glow, it’s easy to forget that asthma and allergy triggers can be hiding in plain sight.

Asthma Canada wants to help you steer clear of asthma and allergy triggers that could make your celebration scary for all the wrong reasons. Whether you’re a parent, trick-or-treater, or party host, here are 13 common Halloween triggers and simple tips to keep the night fun and symptom-free!

1. Cold Air

Cold, dry air is a common trigger for asthma flare-ups during fall, especially when heading out for trick-or-treating! It can irritate the airways and make breathing more difficult.

Tips:

• • Cover your nose and mouth with a scarf or soft mask to warm the air before inhaling it.
  • Always keep your reliever (rescue) inhaler nearby if you plan to be outdoors for long periods.

2. Costumes

Costumes that have been tucked away in closets or basements since last year can collect dust mites, molds and other allergens (e.g., pet dander).

Tips:

• • Wash costumes in hot water. If they’re not washable, air them out outside.
  • Store them in air-tight plastic containers after Halloween to keep dust and other allergens away until next year.

3. Masks

Masks can restrict airflow and trap heat, making breathing difficult for some people with asthma. Latex or synthetic materials may also cause allergic skin reactions.

Tips:

• • Choose costumes with open-face masks
  • Skip masks altogether.

4. Makeup and Hairspray

Costume makeup, hair colour sprays, and glitters can contain harsh chemicals or fragrances that irritate the skin or airways. Even “hypoallergenic” products can cause problems for some people.

Tips:

• • Always read ingredient lists.
  • Apply makeup in a well-ventilated area and remove it thoroughly afterward.
  • Skip make-up altogether.

5. Fragrances and Scents

Strong scents from candles, perfumes, air fresheners, or sprays can irritate sensitive lungs. Many people with asthma find that even natural fragrances can lead to wheezing or coughing.

Tips:

• • Opt for fragrance-free or low-scent alternatives when decorating.
  • Instead of scented candles, try battery-operated or LED versions for a safe, flickering glow.
  • Always ventilate indoor spaces where fragrances have been used.

6. Fog and Smoke Machines

Fog machines may look fun, but they often release glycol- or glycerin-based vapours that can irritate the lungs and cause coughing or tightness in the chest. Even short-term exposure can make symptoms worse.

Tips:

• • Avoid haunted houses or events that use smoke or fog effects.
  • If you’re hosting, skip the machine and use lighting, sound effects, or safe decorations instead.

7. Candy and Food Allergens

Mini and fun-sized treats may contain different ingredients than their full-sized versions, sometimes including allergens like peanuts, milk, or soy. Cross-contamination during packaging can also pose risks.

Tips:

• • Always read ingredient labels carefully before eating any candy.
  • For children with allergies, encourage trading for safe treats or non-food items like stickers, pencils, or toys.

8. Haunted Houses

While they’re designed to thrill, haunted houses can be full of triggers, from artificial fog to dust, scents, or even pets. The excitement and fear can also lead to rapid breathing, potentially triggering asthma symptoms.

Tips:

• • Bring your inhaler and take breaks if you feel short of breath.
  • Avoid attractions that use smoke machines or enclosed, dusty spaces.
  • If you want the fun without the flare-ups, host a small, controlled “haunted home” experience instead.

9. Bonfires and Fire Pits

Bonfires, fire pits, and even tiki torches can add a festive glow to Halloween gatherings, but for people with asthma, the smoke and fine particles they release can be a real fright!

Tips:

• • Avoid sitting too close to bonfires or open flames or move indoors to a well-ventilated area until the air clears.
  • If you’re hosting, consider electric or propane heaters, which produce less smoke.

10. Leaf Piles and Hay Bales

Raking and jumping in piles of leaves can stir up mold spores, pollen, and dust, all of which can trigger allergy or asthma reactions. Hay bales, often used as decorations, carry similar risks.

Tips:

• • Avoid direct contact with piles of leaves or hay.
  • If you’re helping with outdoor cleanup or decorating, wear gloves and a mask.
  • Showering and changing clothes afterward can help remove allergens that cling to your skin and hair.

11. Pollen and Outdoor Allergens

Ragweed pollen can linger into late October in many regions of Canada. Even if you don’t see flowers blooming, pollen can still circulate through the air and settle on clothing or hair.

Tips:

• • Check pollen levels before outdoor events and plan activities when counts are lower.
  • After trick-or-treating, wash hands and faces, and change clothes before settling indoors.
  • Keeping windows closed at home can also reduce exposure.

12. Excitement and Scares!

Halloween is full of thrills, laughter, and surprises, all of which can cause changes in breathing patterns. For some people, strong emotions like excitement or fear can trigger asthma symptoms.

Tips:

• • Stay aware of your breathing and take short breaks to calm down if you feel your chest tightening.
  • Carry your reliever inhaler with you, and don’t hesitate to use it if symptoms start.
  • Remember, it’s okay to step outside or take a breather.

13. Forgetting Your Medication

With all the fun and chaos of Halloween night, it’s easy to forget your inhaler or allergy medication. But preparation is the best way to prevent symptoms from creeping up on you.

Tips:

• • Always keep your reliever inhaler or epinephrine auto-injector with you, even if you think you won’t need it.
  • Review your Asthma Action Plan before heading out. A few minutes of preparation can make the night far more enjoyable.

A Safe and Spooky Night Ahead

With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy all the fun of Halloween without worrying about asthma or allergy flare-ups.

If you have questions about managing asthma or avoiding triggers this Halloween, Asthma Canada is here to help. Our Asthma & Allergy HelpLine is a free, confidential service available to all people with asthma in Canada.

Call: 1-866-787-4050
Email: info@asthma.ca

Share these tips with your family and friends to help everyone enjoy a safe Halloween!