Can this therapy help individuals address unresolved family issues?
It's Christmas time and excitement and joy are everywhere! But not for you. You're feeling congested and can't stop coughing—but why? Believe it or not, you may have what's known as Christmas tree syndrome. Never heard of it? Then you're in the right place. In this gallery, we'll explore the ins and outs of Christmas tree syndrome, with tips for enjoying the holiday season despite the pesky symptoms.
Curious about Christmas tree syndrome and whether you might it? Click through now.
Christmas tree syndrome is a clever and quirky name for an allergic reaction. It can happen a lot during the holiday season when people put up real or artificial Christmas trees and notice worsening allergy symptoms.
It's possible that other things could cause an allergic reaction at this time of year, like turning your heat on for the first time in months. However, if you notice it only after putting the Christmas tree up then the decor could be irritating you.
Symptoms of Christmas tree syndrome include coughing, sneezing, nasal congestion, and red eyes.
Additional possible symptoms include rashes, hives, itchy skin, sore throat, and sinus pressure.
However, if you begin to experience serious symptoms like shortness of breath, swelling of the tongue, or rapid heart rate, you should immediately call the emergency services.
Though an actual pine tree allergy is rare, it's still possible that smelling a pine tree could irritate both your sinuses and lungs.
This happens due to a chemical compound known as terpene. Many other strong-smelling plants such as rosemary, thyme, basil, and lavender also have terpenes.
Technically, yes, your tree could be the only cause of your seasonal allergies. However, it's unlikely.
Both real trees and artificial ones can bring outdoor allergens into your house without you realizing it.
Allergens that might latch onto your Christmas tree include weed pollen, rosin, dust mites, insect droppings, pesticides, and mold.
Other seasonal decor may be also causing your allergies to flare up. Things, like aerosolized artificial snow (flocking), fireplaces, scented candles, and more, can impact your health.
When selecting a Christmas tree, be mindful of pre-existing allergies. For example, if you know you're allergic to pine trees, consider buying an artificial one. If, however, you still want a real tree, consider buying a fir or cypress tree.
Whether you have chosen to buy a real tree or an artificial one, give it a good shake-down before you bring it into the house to rid it of excess pine needles and dust.
When you're decorating, be sure to bear in mind pre-existing allergies. Make smart choices to help minimize your symptoms.
Items you should avoid include holly, cinnamon brooms, and poinsettias.
When you're decorating the Christmas tree, you may get scratched. To avoid this and further rashes or hives that might accompany it, be sure to wear a long-sleeved shirt to protect yourself.
These beautiful ornaments spend 11 months of the year stored away somewhere, likely collecting dust. When you remove them and before putting them on the tree, be sure to wipe each ornament off to help prevent an allergic reaction.
While you're cleaning the dusty ornaments, try wearing a mask so you don't inhale the dust you're trying to avoid!
Over-the-counter nasal steroids, nasal antihistamines, or oral antihistamines can usually help manage allergy symptoms. Be sure to ask a doctor first though, especially if you are already taking prescribed medications.
If you run an air purifier near your Christmas tree, it can be a great way to filter mold spores, dust, pollen, and other air-borne irritants.
After you interact with the Christmas tree, be sure to take a shower and change clothes. This will help keep allergens off your boy and other surfaces such as your bed.
Taking the tree down right after Christmas is important. Though it's gorgeous and reminiscent of the holiday spirit, be sure to bring it down quickly.
Keeping a tree up longer can mean more dust collecting or mold growing. Both of these can prolong your allergy symptoms.
If you're using an artificial tree, be sure to store it in an airtight container when it's not being used. This can help keep dust, mold, and pollen away from it.
Even if your allergies disappear post-holidays, it's important to discuss them with a healthcare provider. There's no reason to be miserable, especially over the holidays.
Allergies caused by Christmas tree syndrome can definitely be annoying but with the help of this guide (and some medicine), you should be able to enjoy the holiday season alongside your loved ones.
Sources: (Cleveland Clinic) (The Ohio State University)
Tips for a healthy holiday: managing Christmas tree syndrome
Is your Christmas tree making you sick?
HEALTH Seasonal illness
It's Christmas time and excitement and joy are everywhere! But not for you. You're feeling congested and can't stop coughing—but why? Believe it or not, you may have what's known as Christmas tree syndrome. Never heard of it? Then you're in the right place. In this gallery, we'll explore the ins and outs of Christmas tree syndrome, with tips for enjoying the holiday season despite the pesky symptoms.
Curious about Christmas tree syndrome and whether you might it? Click through now.