‘Tis the season to be sneezing!

7 December 2011

Seasonal asthma warning

The National Asthma Council Australia is warning the two million plus Aussies with asthma to approach Christmas with caution as unseasonal weather patterns around the country usher in a host of asthma and allergy triggers.

In sodden Queensland mould could be an asthma trigger for some while lusher states have been enjoying a prolonged grass growing season following the break of the drought, resulting in an extended hay fever and sneezing season.

And to add insult to injury, widespread thunderstorm activity that can hit hard at this time of the year actually serves to stir up pollen, splitting particles, making them much easier to inhale into the lungs.

Even the humble Christmas tree – real and fake – can harbour hidden asthma triggers.

“Most people are unaware that Cypress and pine trees produce high amounts of pollen and pollen can trigger hay fever symptoms and asthma, especially when the trees are displayed indoors,” explained Kristine Whorlow, National Asthma Council Australia CEO.  

“Artificial trees may seem like a safe alternative, but these trees are often used year after year and they can accumulate dust and mould in storage and both of these are common asthma triggers.”   

To minimise the Christmas wheeze, the National Asthma Council Australia recommends vacuuming artificial trees and decorations as you get them out of the box, unpacking them outside if possible and wiping down artificial trees before putting them up inside.

Other potential triggers that are likely to be encountered during the festive season include dusty decorations, highly scented candles and extremes of emotions including stress and laughter.

“If you have asthma it’s important to be aware of your asthma triggers and avoid them if possible. You should also continue to follow the personal written asthma action plan that you have developed with your doctor,” Kristine Whorlow advised.

“At this time of the year, make sure you have your medication with you and take it as advised by your doctor, even if you are out partying or away on holidays.”

Christmas Asthma Triggers Include:

Christmas Trees

Natural Christmas trees may harbour pollen and artificial trees can be a major dust trap and may also accumulate mould – all three can trigger asthma in susceptible people.

Decorations

Have the vacuum on hand when you unpack last year’s box of decorations. Ideally, unpack them outside and clean before use. If you are attached to your soft decorations, such as Christmas-themed soft toys or felt stockings, you can put them in the freezer overnight before use to kill dust mites.

Outdoor Parties

The office break up in the park or Christmas Day under the Aussie sun could spell trouble for some people as there is still a lot of pollen floating around, particularly on windy days, which can trigger asthma and hay fever.

Scented Candles

Unfortunately, for some people with asthma, the perfume in scented candles may trigger symptoms. It’s a good idea to check if anyone you’re giving such a gift to has their asthma symptoms triggered by odour, however pleasant.

Emotions

‘Tis the season to be jolly, but it can also be the season for added pressures and stress as the year races to a close and that Christmas deadline looms. Stress and anxiety can be a trigger for asthma as can other intense emotions such as yelling, crying and laughing.

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SUPPORT PHOTOGRAPH

A support photograph for this release featuring a Christmas tree decorated with tinsel, baubles and asthma inhalers can be downloaded here.Christmas Tree
 

For further information or to arrange an interview please contact:

Kelly Ward
Ogilvy Public Relations
Tel: 03 8638 2192
Mob: 0407 860 834
kelly.ward@ogilvy.com.au