The Christmas tree is a must for the end of the year celebrations. But did you know that it could be responsible for symptoms comparable to those of allergic rhinitis (cough, shortness of breath)? In question, the presence of mold and fungi in its trunk and thorns. What to do ?
The end of year celebrations are approaching and it is almost time to install a Christmas tree at home. But be careful with natural trees! These trees can, in some cases, be responsible for respiratory allergies. We call that “Christmas tree allergy syndrome” – or Christmas tree allergy– which is characterized by a set of symptoms similar to allergic rhinitis (also called “hay fever” in its seasonal form) such as cough and difficulty breathing. In question : the presence of mold and fungus in the trunk and in the thorns, microorganisms which, once the tree has been cut and installed in the house, spread into the atmosphere and can lead to allergies.
What are the causes of a tree allergy?
This allergy, still little known to health professionals, was highlighted by allergist Lawrence Kurlandsky in a study published in 2011 in the American Medical Journal Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. After analyzing more than 20 samples of fir bark and thorns, the researcher found 53 different types of mold, all likely to cause sneezing, runny nose, or asthma attacks. These mushrooms (in particular aspergillus, penicillium, cladosporium, alternaria, etc.) first develop on the tree when it is outdoors, then once the tree has been cut, proliferate in a warm environment such as inside a house in winter. “Prior to this study, it was thought that the pollen from the tree, and even the weedkiller used on the trees could be responsible. [d’allergies respiratoires, ndlr]. Now we know it’s the mold“, indicates Dr. Adrian Morris, specialist in allergies in Canada, to the Daily Mail. In addition, the chemicals sprayed on the fir trees, such as artificial snow or preservativescan also cause allergic reactions.
What are the symptoms of a Christmas tree allergy?
The Christmas tree allergy syndrome is characterized by several symptoms:
- Breathing discomfort such as shortness of breath or cough
- Repeated sneezing
- A stuffy or runny nose
- Irritated or watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Chest pain
- sleep disorders
- Asthma attacks in the most severe cases.
What to do against Christmas tree allergy?
If you or any of your family members have one or more of these symptoms, see a doctor. Depending on the symptoms, he may or may not consider prescribing antihistamine drugs. In the event of a severe asthma attack, go directly to the emergency room.
If you opt for a natural tree:
- Rinse its trunk and thorns with water and let it dry outside before installing it in your home.
- Ventilate the room where the tree is installed well for 15 to 20 minutes a day.
- Avoid keeping the tree too long at home (1 to 2 weeks maximum). The more the tree is confined in a warm environment, the more fungus and mold will proliferate and the more serious the bronchial inflammation can be.
The artificial Christmas tree: a good alternative?
If a member of your family has respiratory sensitivity, asthma, severe eczema, history of allergies to moulds, Pinaceae pollens or resinsInstead, opt for an artificial tree, making sure to dust it well with a vacuum cleaner (mold can also lodge there from one year to the next) before installing it in your home.