Christmas Tree Allergy

Each year, as Christmas approaches, we look forward to all the familiar routines and rituals – shopping for presents, a glass of mulled wine and decorating our homes – with the tree taking pride of place. But for some people, the festive cheer then fades as itchy eyes and sneezing make an unwelcome appearance. Could you have something which has been informally called Christmas Tree syndrome? 

Although it doesn’t have a formal medical diagnosis, Christmas Tree syndrome is the nickname given to a flare-up of allergy symptoms which can be triggered by real or artificial trees. Christmas trees can stir up irritants which then aggravate existing allergies. Symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, blocked nose, sore throat, sinus pressure, red or itchy eyes and, occasionally, rashes or hives.  

These reactions are usually mild but can leave you feeling under the weather. Antihistamines often help. Any severe symptoms such as breathing difficulties or swelling require medical attention. Symptoms such as urticaria, allergic rhinitis, worsening of asthma etc should not be ignored and clinical advice sought. 

In the event of a severe asthma attack, immediate medical help is needed, in addition to using prescribed fast-acting asthma medication. If you do not have any medication to relieve your asthma and have difficulty breathing, call an ambulance. 

Why does it happen? 

Mould spores on real trees, unwelcome passengers (mould spores, dust mites, pollen, – most likely to be weed pollen from the autumn months – insect droppings or pesticide residues), strong natural scents (terpenes); dust/mould on artificial trees and decorations which have been in storage. Allergens from pets may also be present from the previous year on an artificial tree – cat allergen, in particular, is small and sticky. 

 Tips to reduce symptoms 

• Choose wisely – if a real tree causes you problems, try a different species or switch to an artificial tree. Try to buy a tree which has been freshly delivered to the seller and hasn’t been sitting at the back of the pack for days. If the problem is the artificial tree, try a real one. 
• Prepare the tree carefully – wear a mask and shake or hose down a real tree before bringing it inside; similarly, dust off artificial ones. 
• Be skin-aware – wear long sleeves and gloves for decorating the tree to avoid skin contact 
• Clean ornaments  – dust ornaments when you take them out of storage and make a note to dust them again before packing them away. Store ornaments in airtight containers. 
• Freshen-up – shower or change your clothes after handling the tree to remove particles. 
• Use support tools – air purifiers can help filter allergens; over the counter antihistamines or nasal sprays may ease symptoms (check with your GP if you’re already on medication). 

Final word 

If your symptoms vanish once the decorations are packed away, Christmas tree syndrome is the likely culprit. But if festive allergies leave you miserable into the New Year, it’s worth speaking with a healthcare professional.