A medical professional is raising awareness about an unusual syndrome as the holiday season approaches.
With Christmas nearing and the chill of winter settling in, you might have already experienced a case of the seasonal flu.
While this is common and anticipated during this time of year, there might be another cause for your sniffles and sneezes that isn’t related to the usual office bugs.
Dr. Donald Grant, a GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, highlights that one typical Christmas decoration might be a significant factor for many allergy sufferers, especially those with skin issues like eczema.
Though it might not have crossed your mind before, the large Christmas tree you’ve brought into your home to spread holiday cheer might be contributing to your seasonal discomfort.
Dr. Grant explains, “Anyone with skin conditions such as eczema is aware that it doesn’t take much to trigger flare-ups. Even minor changes in temperature or hormone levels can exacerbate the condition.
“During Christmas, trees can also exacerbate symptoms.”
He notes that your ideal pine, spruce, or fir can trigger eczema outbreaks in multiple ways, primarily due to the sap and oils present in the trees.
“Many trees contain rosin, which can lead to contact dermatitis and irritate sensitive skin,” Dr. Grant stated.
But that’s not the only issue; these trees can also be a source of mould.
“Additionally, these trees are frequently stored all year in lofts or sheds,” he added. “This creates damp conditions that are ideal for mould spores to develop, which can harm health in various ways, leading to respiratory problems including lung infections.
“For those with eczema, inhaling these spores when they are released into the air can promptly trigger a reaction.”
Even artificial trees might be problematic, as Dr. Grant pointed out that the dust accumulated during storage can linger and disperse around the home while decorating.
“These allergens can irritate the skin, resulting in flare-ups.”
It’s not solely those with eczema who ‘should be cautious of the tree,’ according to him, as ‘anyone can have an allergic reaction to the popular decoration, resulting in sneezing, coughing, disrupted sleep, and sore eyes’.
“This phenomenon is known as ‘Christmas Tree Syndrome’ and involves dust, pollen, and terpenes causing respiratory issues and allergic reactions.”
Fortunately, he mentioned that there are various treatments and medications available for both eczema and allergy sufferers, so they don’t have to forgo having a tree entirely during the festive season.
He advises those with eczema to keep their skin well-moisturized to ‘prevent dryness caused by allergens in the home or increased heating use during the colder months’.
For others, over-the-counter remedies like Benadryl, often used in the summer, can address the symptoms.
Dr. Grant concluded, “Besides treatment, I recommend utilizing air purifiers, minimizing contact with the tree itself, and always checking for mould, dirt, and dust when retrieving it from storage.
“Certain trees pose a higher allergy risk than others; fir trees are generally less reactive than pine, making them a better option for households with skin conditions or respiratory concerns.”