Introduction to Christmas Tree Syndrome
One source of Christmas joy may make some feel not so holly and jolly. If you decorate your home for the holidays every year, but feel downright awful as soon as the tree goes up, you could be dealing with “Christmas tree syndrome.” But despite the delightful name, you could feel like the Grinch.
What is Christmas Tree Syndrome?
While not a clinical term, “Christmas tree syndrome” happens around the holidays thanks to one seasonal staple. Allergies can be brought on by several things, from turning the heat on or unboxing ornaments to tree pollen. While this holiday-themed diagnosis isn’t a clinical condition, it’s simply a cheerful nickname for worsened allergies experienced once a tree is brought into the home.
Causes of Christmas Tree Syndrome
One study even found that 7% of allergy patients had respiratory or skin symptoms linked back to a Christmas tree. The symptoms are often the same as your everyday allergies, such as coughing, sneezing, congestion, red eyes and sinus pressure. And it doesn’t matter if your tree is fake or real, as bringing one into your home can also bring outdoor allergens like pollen, dust and insect droppings. How festive.
The pollen, dust and mites from trees can bring about the sneezing, coughing and other signs of everyday allergies.
Pine Tree Allergies and Terpene
While pine tree allergies are rare, smelling one could irritate lungs and sinuses due to a chemical compound called terpene often found in strong-smelling plants. “If you are allergic to pollen, you may experience hay fever, typically in the spring and summer months,” Dr. Bhavini Shah, a physician from LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, previously told the Sun. “However, Christmas trees can also contain pollen and therefore may trigger hay fever-like symptoms.”
Other Holiday Decorations that Can Trigger Allergies
But the tree isn’t the only thing to blame for your seasonal sniffles. If you re-create a winter wonderland inside the house using aerosolized artificial snow — called flocking — that can cause havoc for lungs from the slew of chemicals used. But the star of the holiday decor doesn’t just affect sinuses and lungs either, as Christmas trees can cause eczema flare-ups from sap, mold, pollen or dust, leading to itchy rashes.
Managing Christmas Tree Syndrome
You don’t have to forego the holiday traditions for the sake of your sinuses, though. Opt for an artificial tree if you have a pine allergy or are sensitive to the smell. Or track down a fir, spruce or cypress tree if you want the real deal. You can also prep your tree and ornaments that have been in storage before you put them up to shake out or hose off any irritants. If you know you’ll be spending time in a home that goes all out with decorations, stock up on allergy medications like nasal sprays or oral antihistamines. And while many of us want the holiday season to last forever, take down the tree as soon as you can once the holidays are over.
Conclusion
Christmas tree syndrome may put a damper on your holiday cheer, but with the right precautions and knowledge, you can still enjoy the festive season without suffering from allergies. By understanding the causes of Christmas tree syndrome and taking steps to manage your symptoms, you can have a happy and healthy holiday season.
FAQs
Q: What is Christmas tree syndrome?
A: Christmas tree syndrome is a nickname for worsened allergies experienced once a tree is brought into the home.
Q: What are the symptoms of Christmas tree syndrome?
A: The symptoms are often the same as your everyday allergies, such as coughing, sneezing, congestion, red eyes and sinus pressure.
Q: Can artificial trees cause Christmas tree syndrome?
A: Yes, bringing an artificial tree into your home can also bring outdoor allergens like pollen, dust and insect droppings.
Q: How can I manage Christmas tree syndrome?
A: You can manage Christmas tree syndrome by opting for an artificial tree, tracking down a fir, spruce or cypress tree, prepping your tree and ornaments, and stocking up on allergy medications.
