As the season of aggravated allergies approaches, the heightened symptoms, including sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, runny nose, and exacerbated asthma, often coincide with yuletide festivities. Surprisingly, your Christmas tree might be the culprit.
Some people have allergies to pine and cedar pollen, and even the comforting pine smell can irritate sinuses and lungs due to chemical compounds present. However, pollen-related allergic reactions to Christmas trees are more likely due to fall weeds whose pollen accumulates on the trees as they await sale.
Dr. J. Allen Meadows, president-elect of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, explains that Christmas trees are cut down well in advance, and while most tree pollen blows away, some, like ragweed pollen, may linger. Additionally, Christmas trees naturally harbor mold spores, flourishing once the tree is moved into a heated home.
A 2011 study revealed the presence of 53 mold species, with 70% of them potentially harmful, thriving on clippings obtained from Christmas trees. The term “Christmas tree syndrome” was coined based on the media storm surrounding this research.
How can we prevent “Christmas tree syndrome” from affecting our holiday celebrations? To manage pollen and mold buildup, use a leaf blower before bringing the tree indoors and hose it down, letting it thoroughly dry. Limit the time your tree stays indoors to about a week, as mold can continue to grow even after the holidays. Consider an air purifier in the same room to alleviate allergy symptoms.
Artificial trees may be a better choice for those with sensitive allergies, but they, as well as holiday decorations, also come with potential allergen issues, such as dust and mold accumulation. Proper storage and dusting can help mitigate allergens in this case.
If symptoms worsen, consider allergy medicines for relief. Consult an allergist to identify specific allergens causing your symptoms.
Upon receiving the results, you can treat yourself to a Christmas present by embarking on a course of allergy immunotherapy. This treatment exposes individuals to small allergen doses, systematically increasing to reduce sensitivity and enhance immunity. While subcutaneous allergy shots have been in practice for over a century, the process has evolved. Now, you can conveniently self-administer drops under the tongue at home, eliminating the need for weekly injections at the doctor’s office. (It’s also much cheaper).
More and more patients are now choosing sublingual allergy immunotherapy. Leading allergy drops distributor Curex just reported 150,000 users.
In Curex, for instance, a virtual appointment allows you to consult with a doctor, undergo necessary tests, and receive personalized drops in the comfort of your home. Commencing immunotherapy now increases the likelihood of being allergy-free by next Christmas.