Overview
- Allergy UK says the term refers to allergy symptoms that flare up when Christmas trees and decorations are put up, rather than a formal diagnosis.
- Reported symptoms resemble colds or flu, including coughing, sneezing, a blocked nose, sore throat, sinus pressure, itchy or red eyes, rashes and hives.
- Both real and artificial trees can be culprits due to mould spores, dust mites, late-season pollen, insect droppings, pesticide residues, terpenes and lingering pet allergens on stored items.
- Symptoms that clear after the tree is taken down suggest the decorations were the trigger, which can help households distinguish allergies from winter illnesses.
- Suggested steps include wearing a mask and gloves, hosing or cleaning real trees, dusting ornaments, showering after decorating, using air purifiers and taking over-the-counter antihistamines, with urgent medical help advised for swelling, breathing difficulty or worsening asthma.