Don’t let Christmas tree syndrome ruin Christmas

The modern Christmas tree was thought to have originated in 16th-century Germany and yet it wasn’t until 1929 that the first case of Christmas tree syndrome was identified, when several patients’ asthma worsened in a hospital after Christmas trees were erected in the ward.

Christmas tree syndrome is estimated to affect about six per cent of people and the National Asthma Council Australia is reminding people with asthma and allergies about the risks of both real and artificial trees.

National Asthma Council Australia spokesperson and allergist, Clinical Professor Sheryl van Nunen OAM said that many people are surprised that both real Christmas trees and artificial trees can pose an allergy risk.

“Christmas tree syndrome is an allergic reaction to real or artificial trees and can cause wheezing, sneezing, cough, itchy nose and throat, sore eyes and even potentially serious asthma attacks.

“Real Christmas trees like cypress and pine can trap high amounts of pollen from other plants before they are cut down.

“Adding to the problem is that about 85 per cent of Christmas trees are cut weeks in advance and if stored in damp conditions, it can create the perfect environment for mould to grow.

“When the tree is brought into a warm home, pollen is gradually released into the air as the tree dries out and mould can multiply rapidly, causing mould concentrations to soar from 800 to over 5,000 spores per cubic meter in just two weeks.

“The pollen and mould can then cause ‘Christmas tree syndrome’, which can trigger asthma and hay fever symptoms and causes wheezing, sneezing, disrupted sleep, and even severe asthma attacks,” she said.

However, Clinical Professor van Nunen warned that while an artificial Christmas tree might seem like a convenient alternative, it can come with its own set of problems.

“Artificial trees can be a safe alternative but, if used year after year, they accumulate dust or mould, which may be invisible to the naked eye.

“Artificial trees can also contain various plastics like polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, or polypropylene along with metals such as iron, lead, or barium.

“The risk comes not only from touching the tree, but also from airborne allergen sources like dust, dust mites, and mould which can trigger asthma and other allergy symptoms.

“Even the most exciting part of the Christmas tree tradition - decorating - can put you at risk if festive decorations have become dusty in storage,” she explained.

Clinical Professor van Nunen says those with allergies and/or asthma can still have a Christmas tree if they wipe artificial trees clean of dust and mould with a damp cloth or take a hose to the real version.

“You can reduce the risks by simply hosing off the tree before you bring it in the house and letting it dry, as this greatly reduces the amount of pollen and dust,” she said.

The National Asthma Council Australia Sensitive Choice program provides helpful tips to help keep your festive season free of wheezing and sneezing:

Real Christmas tree in your home

• Use a mask and hose down your real tree before you bring it into the house to help to wash off the allergens.
• Cut 2.5cm off the bottom so you can water the tree and it will stay in a reasonable condition without drying out too quickly - but remember not to try that with electric lights!
• If you notice increased asthma or allergy symptoms, move your tree outside
• Consider removing the tree the day after Christmas
• A high performance air purifier should be considered.

Artificial Christmas tree in your home

• Use a mask and give the tree a good shake outdoors before you put it up inside.
• Unpack your tree and decorations outside and vacuum them as you get them out of the box.
• Wipe down your artificial tree, wreaths and ornaments with a damp cloth to remove the dust.
• When you pack your tree and decorations away, use airtight plastic bags and sealed boxes so they collect less dust.
• A high performance air purifier is advisable.

Clinical Professor van Nunen said that if you have asthma or allergies, it’s important to be aware of your triggers and manage them if possible.

“You should also continue to follow the written asthma action plan that you have developed with your doctor. Make sure you have your medication with you and take it as advised by your doctor, even if you are out celebrating during the festive season or away on holidays,” she said.

For more information on asthma and allergies visit sensitivechoice.com.

Or download the Christmas tree syndrome fact sheet.

For further information or an interview with a National Asthma Council Australia spokesperson, please contact:

Donna Le Page, Le Page PR

Mobile: 0429 825 703 or Email: [email protected]

The National Asthma Council Australia is a collaboration of four member organisations (APNA, ASCIA, PSA and RACGP) and the national trusted authority for asthma knowledge. We set and disseminate the standards for asthma care through our responsive and evidence-based asthma guidelines - the Australian Asthma Handbook and resources for primary health care professionals. Our Sensitive Choice program empowers consumers to identify asthma and allergy-aware products and services.