Hoping to enjoy your holidays? Avoid the sneeze and wheeze triggers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (November 19, 2025) - As families prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and other winter holidays, millions will also have to navigate increased exposure to allergy and asthma triggers. From festive decorations to candle-lightings to crowded gatherings and cold-weather travel, the holiday season can present challenges for those with respiratory or allergic conditions. A bit of preparation, however, can mean a season of family fun while keeping symptoms under control.

“The holidays are a wonderful time to reconnect with loved ones, but they can also bring unexpected exposures that worsen allergies or asthma,” says allergist Cherie Zachary, MD, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “A few practical steps can make all the difference for a healthy and comfortable celebration.”

Below are five ACAAI-recommended strategies to stay healthy throughout the season:

1. Plan Ahead When Traveling for the Holidays
   Holiday travel can expose you to dust, germs, and unfamiliar environments. For those with food allergies, when flying, wipe down tray tables, armrests, and seatbelts to reduce exposure to allergens and irritants. Pack allergy-proof pillow or mattress covers if you’ll be staying overnight in a hotel or relative’s home. And always keep medications—including inhalers, epinephrine, and antihistamines—in your carry-on bag so they're accessible if needed.
2. Stay Vigilant About Food Allergies at Gatherings
   Many holiday meals include ingredients that can be harmful to those with food allergies. Whether attending a potluck, restaurant event, or family dinner, communicate clearly about your allergies. Don’t hesitate to ask about food preparation, potential cross-contamination, or ingredients in unfamiliar dishes. When in doubt, bring a safe dish of your own and always carry two doses of epinephrine.
3. Manage Stress to Prevent Allergy and Asthma Flares
   The winter holidays can be joyful—but also stressful. Stress hormones can worsen allergic reactions and increase the likelihood of asthma symptoms. Build in downtime during busy travel and social schedules, practice deep breathing or mindfulness, and make sleep a priority. Managing emotional stress helps protect your immune system and stabilizes respiratory health.
4. Take Precautions in Cold Weather
   Sudden temperature drops and exposure to cold air can trigger asthma symptoms for many people. When heading outdoors to shop, shovel snow, or attend gatherings, wear a scarf or mask over your nose and mouth to warm the air before inhaling. Be aware that the rapid weather and temperature changes   of winter—such as moving between heated homes and chilly outdoor air—can also spark asthma flares.
5. Watch for Dust and Mold on Holiday Decorations
   Decorations stored in attics, basements, or garages often collect dust, mold spores, and other allergens. Before bringing out Christmas trees, wreaths, menorahs, ornaments, or holiday linens, unpack them outside or in a well-ventilated space. Wipe hard surfaces with a damp cloth, and consider using an artificial tree if you have mold allergies. If using a live tree, give it a thorough shake and rinse before bringing it inside. Consider wearing a mask while unpacking decorations if you think your allergies could act up.

By taking steps to reduce exposure to common holiday triggers, adults and children with allergies and asthma can enjoy festive traditions with confidence and comfort. For more detailed guidance or help managing symptoms, talk to an allergist. An allergist that can help treat your symptoms and help you keep your life on track. Use ACAAI’s allergist locator to find an allergist in your area.

About ACAAI

The ACAAI is a professional medical organization of more than 6,000 allergists-immunologists and allied health professionals, headquartered in Arlington Heights, Ill. The College fosters a culture of collaboration and congeniality in which its members work together and with others toward the common goals of patient care, education, advocacy, and research. ACAAI allergists are board-certified physicians trained to diagnose allergies and asthma, administer immunotherapy, and provide patients with the best treatment outcomes. For more information and to find relief, visit AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org. Join us on Facebook, Pinterest X/Twitter, Instagram and Threads.