Dr Kasim Ahmed has shone a light on the symptoms of 'Christmas Tree Syndrome' today, following discussions prompted by a recent Mirror article. While the expert said it isn't exactly a formal health issue, this 'syndrome' refers to allergiesassociated with festive decorations.
Speaking on the BBC programme today, Dr Ahmed said: "So, the big thing here is something called Christmas Tree Syndrome, which isn’t an official medical diagnosis, but it is something which people are affected by. And that’s actually the idea that if you are someone who suffers from hay fever, bringing the outside in can cause you to suffer from different symptoms as well.
"So, for example, with your Christmas trees, if you have a fresh Christmas tree, bringing it from the outside inside can cause all sorts of issues if you suffer from allergies."
Like other allergies, symptoms of a Christmas tree aversion may include coughing, sneezing, and potentially even rashes in some cases.
This may be worsened by various invisible particles carried by the foliage, including mould spores, dust mites, pollen, and even insect droppings. Dust mites likewise pose a risk in artificial trees, particularly if they have been kept in the attic for a long period.
Similar advice from Allergy UK explains: "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."
Despite these concerns, both Allergy UK and Dr Ahmed suggest there are various actions you can take to limit the effect of Christmas tree allergies in the home. Dusting off or washing down both artificial and real trees can certainly help, while using tools like air purifiers may help filter allergens as well.
Beyond this, Dr Ahmed suggests maintaining good airflow in your home, even if it involves opening doors or windows for just five minutes in the mornings and evenings.
Dr Ahmed further advised: "If you are someone who uses antihistamines in summer time, same for hay fever or something like that, then in winter time using the same antihistamines either in your own house, if you’ve got a fresh Christmas tree, or if you’re going to see someone, [use] that same antihistamine in the morning before you go there, just to try and reduce your risk of having those allergy-like symptoms."
• 'I left awful UK weather for tax-free city that is 26C in December'
• Family search for answers after dad dies in hospital where he worked for 21 years
Potential symptoms of a Christmas tree allergyAccording to advice from both Dr Ahmed and Allergy UK, symptoms of a Christmas tree allergy may include:
Further advice can be found at Allergy UK's website here.
Get all the hottest shopping deals, cash saving tips and money news straight to your phone by joining our new WhatsApp Community - The Money Saving Club. Just click this link to join https://crnch.it/eutplxS1
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice here https://crnch.it/jeQqC872
