A community pharmacist in Birmingham is sharing advice with families this festive season on how Christmas trees can trigger unexpected allergy symptoms.
Ahsan Bhatti, Superintendent Pharmacist at Quick Meds Online Pharmacy and Frankley Pharmacy, said that symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, watery eyes and worsening asthma that appear when festive decorations go up may be linked to allergens rather than seasonal illness.
These reactions are often described as Christmas Tree Syndrome, a term used to group together allergy and respiratory symptoms caused by exposure to allergens found on real and artificial trees.
“Although it’s not an official medical term or recognised condition, it describes a very real pattern of reactions caused not by the tree itself but by the allergens it carries,” said Ahsan. “For some people, this results in mild irritation, but for others – particularly those with asthma or weakened immune systems – the symptoms can be more severe.”
Allergens such as mould spores, dust, pollen and chemical residues can accumulate on trees while they are stored or transported, and are released into the air once the tree is brought indoors.
Real trees frequently carry mould spores that can thrive in warm indoor environments. Trees are often cut well in advance of sale and stored in ways that allow moisture to build up. Once indoors, heating and reduced airflow can cause spores to multiply and become airborne.
Artificial trees can also pose a problem. While they do not naturally produce mould or pollen, they can gather dust and mould spores during long periods of storage. Decorations and festive accessories may harbour similar allergens if stored uncovered.
Unpacking these items can release irritants into the air, leading to itching, sneezing, coughing and eye irritation.
Ahsan recommends seeking professional advice if symptoms continue, noting that pharmacy treatments such as antihistamines, nasal sprays and eye drops can help relieve symptoms.
“The good news is that enjoying your Christmas tree doesn’t have to mean enduring uncomfortable symptoms,” added Ahsan. “Some simple preventive steps can significantly reduce exposure to allergens.”
He advises rinsing real trees outdoors and allowing them to dry thoroughly before bringing them inside, as well as cleaning artificial trees and decorations before display.
Keeping the tree in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat sources can help prevent mould growth. In homes where allergies are a concern, air purifiers may also reduce airborne allergens.
“Christmas Tree Syndrome may not be a medically recognised condition, but the symptoms associated with it are very real,” added Ahsan. “With the right precautions, you can enjoy your festive centrepiece without the sneezes.”
For more information, visit www.quickmeds.co.uk
