'Christmas Tree Syndrome' Linked To Allergic Reactions To Ornaments, Here's What You Need To Know
Beware the warning sign of "Christmas Tree Syndrome." It can be a possible indicator of an allergy to decorations.
Many families excitedly decorate their houses for the holidays as they draw near, infusing their living areas with the cosiness and happiness of the occasion.
But for a few, the custom of decorating a Christmas tree may have an unanticipated side effect that they call "Christmas Tree Syndrome."
This illness is related to allergic responses brought on by the decorations themselves.
It affects people who might not know they are sensitive to particular materials or substances frequently used in holiday d¨¦cor.
What Is 'Christmas Tree Syndrome'?
Credit: Canva
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Christmas is getting the decorations up, but several symptoms can indicate a festoon allergy. Look out for people who exhibit "Christmas tree syndrome"; you can be allergic to the festive fir, despite how beautiful a Christmas tree may seem.
What Are The Allergies Caused By 'Christmas Tree Syndrome'?
Christmas tree syndrome may be present in people who suddenly experience symptoms, including sore, itchy eyes, coughing, sneezing, or even asthma episodes, according to Kiki Soteri. Head of Clinical Services at Leightons Opticians. Kiki said in an interview with The Express that itchy eyes could be among the first signs patients detect.
She said: "The symptoms, which include sneezing, coughing, runny nose, watery eyes, and eye pain, are comparable to seasonal allergens such as hay fever.
Mould development and pollen on real Christmas trees may cause these allergies."
Credit: Canva
Kiki suggested minimising the time the tree is indoors to prevent mould spores from forming on it. She stated, "Minimize the time the tree is indoors to reduce mold spores."
Think about decorating the tree later or early in December." Bringing a live tree into your house may also result in dust mites, which can aggravate respiratory allergies.
However, the mites can also "accumulate on artificial trees" in addition to lights and decorations. Kiki has provided some excellent advice to help avoid any unwelcome symptoms.
How Do You Think You Could Take The Precautions?
Credit: Canva
To start, Kiki advised cleaning any artificial trees; you may have to "remove any dust or allergies" from them. She advised "thorough drying before bringing indoors" and "hosing down the tree before bringing it inside" for people who owned real trees.
She also suggested washing your hands after decorating and "wearing gloves" when handling the tree to be safe. Additional advice included placing the tree in a room with a "regulated temperature" so that it's "not too hot or cold" and staying away from the tree up close in case of any allergic responses.
It is best to speak with your general practitioner (GP) if your symptoms persist or you have any health concerns.
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