The festive tradition of adorning a Christmas tree is a joyous occasion for many, with over one-third of American households participating in this seasonal tradition. However, shortly after erecting the tree, some individuals may experience peculiar symptoms akin to seasonal allergies, such as sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes. If you find yourself facing these symptoms, don't fret; it's not necessarily a newfound allergy to the holiday season itself but could be attributed to something else—Christmas Tree Syndrome.

Don’t worry! Yes, “Christmas Tree Syndrome” may sound odd and confusing, but AFC Urgent Care West Hartford has created an easy to read guide to help you understand a little bit more about “Christmas tree Syndrome.” 

Preventing Christmas Tree Syndrome:

The good news is that the effects of Christmas tree syndrome can be mitigated by reducing exposure to the allergens commonly found on trees. Follow these tips to minimize allergens on your tree and make the most of the holiday season:

For Live Trees:

• Cover hands and arms to prevent contact with sap.
• Before setting it up, shake and rinse the tree with water to eliminate any mold.
• Soak the tree stump in water to discourage future mold growth.
• If you have allergies but can't resist a live tree, limit its display indoors to no more than a week.

For Artificial Trees:

• Store your artificial tree appropriately during the off-season: wrap it securely, store it in a cool, dry place, and avoid dusty environments.
• Clean the tree with a wipe or vacuum before placing it in your home.
• Wipe down ornaments before decorating the tree.
• Exercise caution with spray snow or scents, as aerosol chemicals can lead to irritant reactions.

Symptoms of Christmas Tree Syndrome:

• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Itchy Nose
• Watery Eyes
• Fatigue
• Sleep Disturbances

Understanding Christmas Tree Syndrome:

This allergic reaction is triggered by the Christmas tree itself, with molds found on live trees being a significant culprit. Research from the State University of New York indicates that a staggering 70 percent of molds on live Christmas trees can induce severe conditions like asthma attacks, fatigue, and sinus congestion. Interestingly, both live and artificial trees can contribute to Christmas Tree Syndrome.

Contact Us Today!

If your holiday season is marred by the discomfort caused by your Christmas tree, consider reaching out for assistance. AFC Urgent Care West Hartford is open seven days a week, accepting most insurance plans. Whether you prefer to walk in, schedule an appointment, or give us a call, we're ready to assist you. Explore our user-friendly online payment system, where a few clicks are all it takes to check in and out. Warm wishes for a happy holiday season and continued well-being!