mens health > allergies > winter allergy

Winter Allergy

Though many people think of spring and summer as peak allergy seasons, thousands of people suffer from winter allergy syndrome especially around Christmas.

Common symptoms are sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, skin irritations and drunk relatives. Knowing the culprits that trigger winter allergy reactions ... and avoiding them like your aunt with that one hair growing out of her mole ... can lead to a more enjoyable holiday season.

Allergic to Christmas?

Many people consider tree pollen to be the primary cause of their allergy symptoms during the holidays. While it's possible to have an allergy to pine tree pollen, it's impossible to have symptoms during the Christmas season from pollen because pine trees only pollinate in the spring. Instead, Christmas trees are a source for mold spores which attach to the branches and needles. The trees may be cut up to two months before they arrive in your home. They are kept alive by daily watering, which, over time leads to mold growth.

Terpene, which is found in the oil and sap of these trees, evergreen wreaths and garlands, is also a common allergy culprit. Terpene can cause skin rashes and hives when it comes in contact with the skin of allergic individuals. If you are allergic to terpene or mold spores, consider an artificial tree. If you choose to go the artificial route, be sure to wash the tree and the decorations with a cloth using hot soapy water before assembling. These items are a source for dust caused by improper storage. Store your artificial tree in a sealed plastic bag in an area free of dust and mold.

Winter Allergy Wonderland

Unpacking Christmas ornaments can also trigger allergic reactions. Decorations stored for the past year in a damp basement may harbor molds or dust mites. Moving, carrying and unpacking the Christmas boxes stirs up dust and transfers allergens to the hands, the nose and the lungs, causing skin rashes, stuffy, runny noses, wheezing and coughing. Whenever possible, keep ornaments and decorations stored in dry areas, off the floor in plastic bags. It is also a good idea to wash your hands after unpacking decorations. If you are concerned about allergy symptoms, allow others to trim the tree.

The ornamental poinsettia belongs to the same plant family as the Brazilian rubber tree from which latex is obtained. Direct contact with the milky sap from a broken poinsettia leaf can trigger an allergic reaction such as rash, hives, sneezing, coughing and shortness of breath within minutes in those allergic to latex. Although extreme reactions are rare, keep this in mind if buying these plants for friends during the season.

Drew Voight