Hidden holiday allergy triggers: How to stay protected

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Health warnings during the holiday season often focus on reducing stress or curbing how much people are eating and drinking, but for the millions of Americans who suffer from allergies, the holidays could carry a whole host of health risks.

Dr. Clifford Bassett, a clinical assistant professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center in New York City and director of Allergy & Asthma Care of New York, tells CBSNews.com that it's essential to have a holiday action plan to stay ahead of allergic reactions and irritation caused by common staples of the holiday season.

"Pre-treatment before symptoms begin is a secret to success," he says.

With help from Dr. Bassett, keep clicking to see some common triggers that might set off an allergic reaction or cause an uncomfortable evening for you and your holiday guests, and find out how to stay protected.