Have you noticed more allergy-like symptoms—runny nose, sneezing, itchy skin or congestion—since bringing your Christmas tree into the house? Your Christmas tree may be triggering some allergies, but the source isn’t what you think.
What Am I Allergic To?
It isn’t the tree pollen, as pines, firs and spruces (the most common tree varieties used for Christmas trees) all release their pollen in the spring.
It might be in the sap, in a chemical compound called terpenes, but terpene allergies are relatively rare. If this is the case for you, you’ll likely notice skin reactions, like rashes or hives, when you touch the tree.
Most likely, your Christmas tree-related allergy symptoms are being triggered by mold. Mold allergies are quite common, and trees are known to carry microscopic mold spores that they pick up while growing on a tree farm or waiting to be chosen from a tree lot. Then, while you transport it into the house, mount it on a tree stand and decorate it with ornaments, the mold spores will be stirred up and sent airborne.
How Can I Decrease Allergy Symptoms?
Before you bring your Christmas tree into the house, shake it off outside to shed as much debris and mold as possible. This simple solution will remove a lot of the loose mold that could cause you grief later on, were it to enter your home. You may even consider spraying it off with a hose and sprayer and then leaving it out to dry for a couple of days.
Airborne mold spores can travel throughout the house, providing little relief even if you leave the room in which the Christmas tree stands. Lessen these effects by cleaning the house regularly with a duster and vacuum, and by investing in a HEPA air filtration system, which will remove mold spores and other small allergen particles from the air. You may want to consider wearing a mask while cleaning.
Many over-the-counter medications are effective in reducing symptoms or preventing them. Using antihistamines, decongestants or pain relievers can help with itchiness or congestion.
Don’t let a sniffly nose get in the way of enjoying your Christmas tree this festive season. Call Lakelands ENT to learn more about allergy symptom relief.
