holiday Health Alert: Real Christmas Trees May Trigger Mold Allergies, But Artificial Options Aren’t Risk-Free
PARIS, FRANCE - As the holiday season approaches, health experts are issuing a reminder that both real and artificial Christmas trees can pose risks to indoor air quality and potentially trigger allergic reactions.
Dr. Victoria Nguyen notes that freshly cut fir trees can harbor dormant mold spores that become active in warmer indoor environments, leading to a condition sometimes called “Christmas tree syndrome.” Symptoms can include itchy eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion, and difficulty breathing, often mimicking a cold or the flu.A study published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology identified 53 types of mold present in 26 different Christmas trees. The longer a tree remains indoors, the higher the concentration of mold particles and the greater the risk of allergic response.
However,switching to an artificial tree isn’t necessarily a healthier choice. Bryan Cummings, a researcher at Drexel University’s College of Engineering, points out that artificial trees frequently enough contain plastics and PVCs, including phthalates – chemical plasticizers that can be released into the air.Prolonged exposure to these compounds may cause respiratory or allergic problems and contribute to indoor pollution, as reported by HuffPost.
Nonetheless of the tree type chosen, Dr. Nguyen recommends thoroughly washing and drying the tree outdoors before bringing it inside. She also advises rinsing decorations and utilizing air purifiers.
For those experiencing allergy symptoms, over-the-counter medications like antihistamines or nasal sprays may provide relief. Persistent allergies may warrant consideration of immunotherapy, such as sublingual tablets or injections, though these treatments typically require a two-to-five-year commitment for optimal results.
