Is Your Christmas Tree Making You Sneeze? Unpacking Holiday Allergies

Nearly one-third of adults have allergies, which can become a huge nuisance when left untreated. Between the pollen on real trees and dust mites camping out in the artificial ones, holiday cheer can quickly turn into sneezes and nasal congestion.  

Are you sneezing continuously after putting up your Christmas tree? Turn to Srinagesh Paluvoi, MD, FAAP, FACAAI, and the team at Allergy & Asthma Affiliates in Lansdowne and Gainesville, Virginia, to find out what’s going on — starting with our guide below.

Christmas tree-related allergy symptoms

You may experience one or more of the following allergic reactions after putting up your tree, whether it’s real or artificial. Many people call this “Christmas tree syndrome” (not a medical diagnosis):

• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Itchy, sore, or red eyes
• Nasal congestion 
• Sore throat
• Sinus pressure
• Eczema flares 
• Rash or hives
• Itchy skin
• Wheezing
• Asthma attacks

If you develop a severe reaction that includes a rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, or swelling of your face, tongue, mouth, or throat, seek immediate medical attention. 

Common causes of Christmas tree allergies

The reasons you might sneeze around a real or artificial Christmas tree include:

• Sinus or lung irritation — Allergens on real trees can irritate sensitive airways and trigger respiratory symptoms, especially for people with asthma.
• Pollen — Real trees may carry leftover pollen from outdoor growth.
• Mold — One study found that real trees can carry 50 different types of mold, increasing mold spores in your home by more than six times.
• Dust mites — Artificial trees can collect dust and mites during storage.
• Insect droppings — Real trees may carry insect debris.
• Rosin — Sap from real trees can cause allergic reactions.
• Pesticides — Real trees may carry residue from pesticide spraying at tree farms.

Also, Christmas trees aren’t the only holiday decorations that may boost the risk of sneezing and stuffiness. Scented candles, seasonal air fresheners, household chemicals, holiday plants, and other festive decor can also exacerbate allergy symptoms. 

Ways to reduce sneezes around the Christmas tree

Consider the following hacks to reduce sneezing and other allergy symptoms when decorating your tree this holiday season:

• Shake your tree outside to remove loose debris and allergens.
• Use an air compressor to blow debris from your tree.
• Rinse your tree with a hose.
• Consider natural, non-pine trees (fir, cypress, spruce, etc.).
• Wear long sleeves and pants when putting up and decorating your tree.
• Use an air purifier to clean your indoor air.
• Choose an artificial tree if a real one usually triggers a reaction.
• Store artificial trees in an airtight container or a sealed box.
• Avoid storing artificial Christmas trees in humid or damp areas.
• Keep ornaments and other decor clean (free from mold, dust, and other debris).
• Reach out to your allergist.

Dr. Paluvoi offers allergy and asthma testing and treatments that help keep your symptoms at bay. He may recommend oral medications, sprays, allergy shots, an inhaler, or other solutions to enhance your quality of life and well-being. 

Ready to take charge of eliminating allergy symptoms? Contact us today at Allergy & Asthma Affiliates by calling our office or booking an appointment online to enjoy the holidays sneeze-free.