News
October 16, 2025
GP warns your Halloween decorations might be making you ill - here's why
You may need to get a different Halloween decoration this year as it could be causing you to feel pretty sick according to one docot from Lloyds Pharmacy
**Halloween Decorations: Spooky Fun or Sneaky Health Hazard?**
As Halloween approaches and homes transform into spooky spectacles, a leading GP from Lloyds Pharmacy is urging revelers to consider the potential health impacts of their decorations. While cobwebs and ghouls might create the perfect eerie ambiance, some decorations could be silently contributing to a range of unpleasant symptoms.
The warning highlights the potential for certain materials used in Halloween decorations to release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. These chemicals, often found in plastic decorations, artificial spider webs, and even some scented items, can trigger a variety of health problems, particularly in individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma or allergies.
"Many Halloween decorations, especially those mass-produced and imported, can be made with materials that release harmful chemicals," explains the GP. "These chemicals can irritate the airways, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Some people may also experience headaches, nausea, and dizziness."
The issue is particularly concerning for children, who are more susceptible to the effects of VOCs due to their smaller size and developing respiratory systems. Homes with poor ventilation can exacerbate the problem, allowing these chemicals to accumulate and reach higher concentrations.
So, what can you do to ensure a safe and spooky Halloween? The GP recommends opting for decorations made from natural materials like pumpkins, gourds, and dried corn stalks. When purchasing manufactured decorations, look for labels indicating low VOC emissions or choose decorations made from recycled materials.
“If you are sensitive to smells or have a history of allergies or asthma, it’s best to avoid decorations with strong chemical odors altogether,” the GP advises. "Consider making your own decorations using natural and non-toxic materials. This can be a fun activity for the whole family and a healthier alternative."
Finally, ensuring proper ventilation is crucial. Open windows and doors regularly to allow fresh air to circulate, especially after setting up new decorations. By taking these simple precautions, you can enjoy a fun and festive Halloween without compromising your health. Before transforming your home into a haunted house, remember to prioritize your well-being and choose your decorations wisely.
As Halloween approaches and homes transform into spooky spectacles, a leading GP from Lloyds Pharmacy is urging revelers to consider the potential health impacts of their decorations. While cobwebs and ghouls might create the perfect eerie ambiance, some decorations could be silently contributing to a range of unpleasant symptoms.
The warning highlights the potential for certain materials used in Halloween decorations to release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. These chemicals, often found in plastic decorations, artificial spider webs, and even some scented items, can trigger a variety of health problems, particularly in individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma or allergies.
"Many Halloween decorations, especially those mass-produced and imported, can be made with materials that release harmful chemicals," explains the GP. "These chemicals can irritate the airways, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Some people may also experience headaches, nausea, and dizziness."
The issue is particularly concerning for children, who are more susceptible to the effects of VOCs due to their smaller size and developing respiratory systems. Homes with poor ventilation can exacerbate the problem, allowing these chemicals to accumulate and reach higher concentrations.
So, what can you do to ensure a safe and spooky Halloween? The GP recommends opting for decorations made from natural materials like pumpkins, gourds, and dried corn stalks. When purchasing manufactured decorations, look for labels indicating low VOC emissions or choose decorations made from recycled materials.
“If you are sensitive to smells or have a history of allergies or asthma, it’s best to avoid decorations with strong chemical odors altogether,” the GP advises. "Consider making your own decorations using natural and non-toxic materials. This can be a fun activity for the whole family and a healthier alternative."
Finally, ensuring proper ventilation is crucial. Open windows and doors regularly to allow fresh air to circulate, especially after setting up new decorations. By taking these simple precautions, you can enjoy a fun and festive Halloween without compromising your health. Before transforming your home into a haunted house, remember to prioritize your well-being and choose your decorations wisely.
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