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Urdu“There’s nothing quite as romantic as letting your true love know you’ve thought about them and aren’t grabbing the first thing you see at the big box store as you shop for socks,” says allergist James Tracy, DO, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACCAI). “If your partner sees from your gifts that you understand the challenges that come with allergies and asthma, you’re certain to score appreciation points on the big day.”
According to ACAAI, the timing of Valentine’s Day means it coincides with allergists’ yearly reminders to their patients to begin taking their allergy medications. If spring allergens cause symptoms for you, mid-February is the time to start thinking about how to keep them under control. Allergy medications are a good place to start.
Following are five ways to show your valentine that you “get them” and want to keep their allergies and asthma under control.
- Bring out the craft kit – You don’t have to be a professional artist to create something personal and allergen-free. A little advance planning can also make it meaningful. Has your valentine put off making photo albums and that’s where your talent lies? Make a family photo album, or just images of the two of you. What about a carefully curated playlist, or even an original song if you happen to have musical talent? How about a heartfelt letter? Everyone wants to know how much they are appreciated and loved, and if you’ve never written it down before, it could be one for the memory books.
- Cook an allergy-free meal or find a restaurant that will – If going out to dinner makes your valentine nervous due to food allergies, consider cooking a new, allergy-friendly meal that neither of you has tried before. There are many websites that offer recipes and tips for those with food allergies, and if your valentine must avoid things like chocolate or nuts (staples of Valentine’s Day) you could score big in the romance department. Or scout out your favorite restaurant that you know is careful about food allergens. Some restaurants even specialize in allergy-free fare.
- Allergen-free activities can make their heart flutter – Does your valentine absolutely love live theater? Consider getting them tickets to a much-awaited show. Something less expensive might be a romantic nature walk along a path you’ve never explored, or a movie night watching the film you never got to see when it was at the movie theater. Are you and your valentine far apart, distance-wise? Plan a virtual date where you can cook the same recipe from a distance, drink a glass of bubbly, (or a cocktail or mocktail) while reading your Valentine cards together, or watch a favorite film. Or do all three!
- Flowers can be a winner – For many people, having flowers delivered is a big thrill. And the good news is that most flowers don’t cause allergy symptoms. The old standby – roses – are a safe bet for those allergic to pollen. A dozen (or two!) roses could be a welcome gift for any flower lover on your list who has allergies. Be aware that some flowers are worse than others when it comes to producing the pollen that causes allergic reactions. If you stay away from daisies, goldenrod, sunflowers, and chamomile, you are probably safe. Remember that many types of lilies – popular in winter bouquets – are toxic to pets, so they should not be allowed in homes with furry family members.
- Jewelry might be an OK option – If you are considering a big romantic statement, you could consider jewelry. But before heading in that direction, be aware that many people suffer from nickel allergy and nickel is found in metal products like jewelry, zippers, and buttons. It can even be in chrome-plated objects, and 14K and 18K gold contain nickel that can irritate the skin if the metal gets moist. Jewelry doesn’t necessarily fall into the category of “low-cost options,” but a carefully selected item could prove meaningful if you’re at that stage with your special person.
An allergist can help you and your loved ones avoid allergy triggers every day of the year. Allergists are specially trained to help you take control of your allergies and asthma, so you can live the (romantic) life you want.
For more information about the diagnosis and treatment of allergies and asthma, or to locate an allergist in your area, visit AllergyAndAsthmaRelief.org.
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 and Twitter.
