SATURDAY, Feb. 8, 2025 (HealthDay News) — Valentine’s Day isn’t just about gifts — it’s about showing your special someone you truly care.
But if your Valentine has allergies or asthma, certain classic gestures — like a bouquet of flowers or a fancy dinner outside — might not be the best choice.
“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,” allergist Dr. James Tracy, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACCAI), said in a news release.
“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,” he added.
Here are five expert-endorsed, allergy-friendly Valentine’s Day ideas to keep the romance alive — without the sniffles.
1. Bring out a craft kit.
You don’t need to be an artist to craft a meaningful, allergen-free present. A handwritten letter, a homemade photo album or even a custom playlist can show your thoughtfulness. If your Valentine loves music, writing a personal song could be the ultimate romantic gesture.
2. Make an allergy-safe meal.
If food allergies make dining out stressful, consider a safe, homemade meal instead. Look up allergy-friendly recipes or find a restaurant that caters to different food allergies. If your Valentine is allergic to chocolate or nuts, surprising them with a delicious, allergy-friendly dessert could win you extra points.
3. Plan an allergen-free date night.
Skip the crowded restaurants and opt for a special date night instead. Consider a pair of theatre tickets or a scenic walk in nature (if their allergies can stand it). You could also prepare a virtual date night if you’re long distance, where you cook the same meal, share a drink and watch a movie together.
4. Choose flowers … wisely.
Flowers are a Valentine’s Day classic, and many don’t trigger allergies. Roses can be a safe choice, but steer clear of daisies, goldenrod, sunflowers and chamomile. If your Valentine has pets, avoid lilies, as they can be toxic to animals.
5. Be careful with the jewelry.
Jewelry might seem like a foolproof gift, but nickel allergies are common. Some metals, such as 14K and 18K gold, can contain nickel that can irritate the skin when moist. Look for nickel-free options if your Valentine has sensitive skin.
SOURCE: American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACCAI), news release, Jan. 29, 2025
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