Christmas Tree Allergy: Symptoms, Tips & Treatment

Christmas tree allergy, also called Christmas tree syndrome, describes when an individual experiences an allergic reaction from being around or coming into direct contact with a Christmas tree. Many are surprised to learn that their Christmas trees can carry allergenic substances and trigger allergic reactions. Even more surprising, perhaps, is the fact that allergies to live Christmas trees and their pollen are actually rather uncommon, and Christmas tree allergy is more likely to be caused by mold or dust. Live and artificial Christmas tree allergies can occur.

Live Christmas Tree Allergies

• Terpenes: some people are allergic to oxidized terpenes, the compounds that give Christmas trees their pine fragrance.
• Tree sap: direct contact with colophony or rosin in Christmas tree sap can cause an allergic rash similar to poison ivy.
• Pollen: you may be allergic to your Christmas tree’s pollen.
• Mold: your tree may have accumulated mold from being damp.

Artificial Christmas Tree Allergies

• Mold: artificial trees can gather mold when stored, especially if kept in a damp environment.
• Dust: artificial trees can also gather excess dust.

in St. Louis, Missouri

Christmas Tree Allergy Symptoms

Terpenes Allergy Symptoms

• Asthma symptoms
• Rhinitis (nasal allergy) symptoms
• Stuffy nose, congestion, runny nose, sneezing
• Mucus / phlegm in the throat, sometimes called “postnasal drip”
• Itching in the nose, roof of the mouth, throat, or eyes
• Teary eyes
• Dark circles under the eyes

Sap Allergy Symptoms

• Allergic contact dermatitis
• Red, inflamed skin
• Rash
• Itchiness
• Difficulty breathing

Pollen Allergy Symptoms

• Coughing, frequent sneezing, wheezing
• Runny nose, congestion
• Sinus pressure
• Scratchy throat
• Excess saliva
• Itchy, stinging, watery eyes
• Fatigue
• Trouble sleeping
• Asthma symptoms

Mold Allergy Symptoms

• Runny nose, nasal congestion
• Sneezing
• Itchy nose, itchy mouth and lips
• Asthma symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness
• More severe symptoms are also possible, such as hives, worsening eczema, swollen eyelids, and upset stomach

Dust Allergy Symptoms

• Red, itchy or teary eyes
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Itching
• Wheezing, coughing tightness in the chest and shortness of breath

in St. Louis, Missouri

Christmas Tree Allergy Tips

• Clean your Christmas tree to remove allergens. Shake your tree, rinse it, and dry it outside before bringing it inside. You can also use an air compressor to blow debris from your tree.
• Use an air purifier in the room where your tree is to help eliminate allergens.
• If you’ve experienced a skin reaction from contact with your tree, protect your skin when working with the tree. Wear long sleeves and gloves.
• If pine pollen or sap are triggering your allergies, consider a non-allergenic Christmas tree, such as a fir, spruce, or cypress tree.
• Use an artificial Christmas tree if you have a pollen or sap allergy. However, be aware that artificial trees can still accumulate dust and mold, and should be cleaned before setting them up and decorating.
• Check your Christmas decorations. They may be covered in dust or mold. If you’re sensitive to either of these allergens, be sure to clean your decorations before placing them.
• Be mindful of other holiday allergy triggers. Your exposure to smoke from fireplaces, scented holiday products, and pets may increase during the holidays.
• If all else fails, consider setting up your Christmas tree outside rather than inside.

Christmas Tree Allergy Treatment

Once you know what you’re allergic to, avoidance is key. Follow the tips above to minimize your exposure to allergies. Dr. Cajigal at St. Louis Family Allergy can help provide more personalized guidance based on your specific environment and lifestyle.

Treatment with over-the-counter medications, prescriptions, or more advanced treatments like allergy shots will depend on what you’re allergic to. Check out our pages on different Christmas tree allergens to learn more:

• Dust Allergy
• Mold Allergy
• Winter Allergies in Missouri

References