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Updated: 10:07 AM Dec 7, 2009
Holiday Season Allergies
Lincoln Doctors say holiday decorations and live evergreens can cause allergies to flare up and offer suggestions for keeping the irritants in check.
Posted: 7:17 PM Dec 6, 2009Reporter: Keller Russell Email Address: Keller.Russell@1011now.com |
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Cold weather couldn't stop Greg and Celeste Hall from hunting for their perfect Christmas tree; picking out a real one is part of their annual tradition.
"Part of it is just coming out and picking out something that grew and we just like the smell and everything you get from a real tree versus an artificial," said Greg.
But a fresh scent isn't all you're bringing into your home with the real deal. Doctors say real trees can carry mold on them, which ultimately makes its way into your home.
The warm temperature inside your home combined with the water the tree sits in helps the mold grow - creating problems for those with allergies.
Dr. Suzanne Vandenhul with Antelope Creek Family Physicians has seen an increase in patients with allergy symptoms in the last week or so.
"What I'm seeing in people is a lot of congestion. I've had some patients that had a lot of itchy, watery eyes and alot of sneezing," said Vandenhul.
To limit the effects, doctors suggest using a leaf blower on the tree to remove any pollens that may still be on the tree. A solution of luke warm water and bleach (1 part bleach to 20 parts water) can also be used to wipe down the trunk of your tree to eliminate mold, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
Vandenhul also recommends trimming the time the tree spends in your home.
"You really want to make sure you only keep it for a couple weeks and that you're changing the water the tree is sitting in," said Vandenhul.
But it's not just live evergreens that can cause irritation to allergies during the holidays; artificial trees and decorations that have been tucked away for the year can collect dust and cause flare ups.
Vandenhul says wiping down all decorations and using the vaccum on items like stockings or the artificial tree will help eliminate the dust and help you breathe a little easier during this holiday season.
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