“For symptom management, things like over-the-counter nasal steroids, nasal antihistamines or oral antihistamines can help with some of those symptoms,” Preston said. If the tree’s already up and you’re noticing your allergies worsen, getting an air purifier as well as traditional allergy medicines can help. If your family goes the artificial route, Preston said allergens like dust and mold can build up on the tree in storage.
Preston said real trees can have weed pollen and mold.Įven taking in the comforting pine smell can irritate your sinuses and lungs because of the chemical compounds present. DeVon Preston, an allergist with Cleveland Clinic.Īlthough being allergic to pine trees is relatively uncommon, there could be other allergens lurking. “When people bring a real or artificial tree into their home and notice some worsening of their allergy symptoms, this can sometimes be referred to as Christmas tree syndrome,” explained Dr. Since real and artificial trees can carry things like dust and mold, you could be experiencing what some people call Christmas tree syndrome.
Is your Christmas tree making you cough and sneeze?
