The holiday season is upon us, bringing the warmth and joy of Christmas. However, what if your beloved Christmas tree is the unexpected culprit behind your seasonal discomfort? Surprisingly, more than one-third of American households partake in the tradition of adorning a Christmas tree during this festive time. If you find yourself battling sneezing fits, a runny nose, and itchy eyes once your tree is up, you might be grappling with what is colloquially known as "Christmas Tree Syndrome" — an allergic reaction to pine or mold.

Good news! AFC Urgent Care Danbury Main St has created a guide to help you understand what “christmas Tree Syndrome” is and how you can protect yourself from it. 

Spotting the Symptoms of Christmas Tree Syndrome:

• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Itchy Nose
• Watery Eyes
• Fatigue
• Sleep Troubles
• Dark circles under the eyes

Causes of Christmas Tree Syndrome:

Contrary to popular belief, Christmas Tree Syndrome isn't exclusive to live trees; it can also affect artificial ones, though it tends to be more prevalent in natural trees. The symptoms can be triggered by various factors, ranging from the tree's aroma to the resin or molds naturally present on Christmas trees. Notably, a study by the State University of New York revealed that a significant 70 percent of molds found on live Christmas trees can lead to severe issues such as asthma attacks, fatigue, and sinus congestion.

Tips to Protect Yourself  Against Christmas Tree Syndrome:

For Live Trees:

• Wear gloves and long sleeves when bringing the tree indoors to prevent sap from touching your skin.
• Use a mask, especially if you have asthma or are susceptible to dust and pollen.
• Before bringing the tree inside, shake it out or blow it with a leaf blower, then spray it with water to remove pollen and mold.
• Allow the tree stump to dry outside for a few days to hinder mold growth.
• Families with severe allergies should consider refraining from setting up live trees. If opting for one, leave it up for no more than a week.

For Artificial Trees:

• Properly store your artificial tree during the off-season: securely wrap it and store it in a cool, dry place, avoiding dusty environments.
• Wipe down the tree before setting it up in your home.
• Clean ornaments before decorating the tree.
• Exercise caution with spray snow, as aerosol chemicals can cause irritant reactions.
• Promptly remove the Christmas tree after the holidays to minimize the risk of mold spores and other allergens.

AFC Urgent Care Danbury: Your Health Ally This Holiday Season!

If you suspect that Christmas Tree Syndrome is affecting you, don't hesitate to visit AFC Urgent Care Danbury at any of our convenient locations. We can assist in determining whether your tree is the source of the issue or if there's a more serious underlying cause for your symptoms, such as a cold or the flu. 

We're open seven days a week and welcome most insurance plans. Whether you prefer to walk in, schedule an appointment, or give us a call, we're here for you. Explore our hassle-free online payment system, allowing you to check in and out with ease. Warm wishes for a joyful holiday season and continued well-being!