Christmas Risky For People With Asthma

Main Category: Respiratory / Asthma
Article Date: 29 Nov 2009 - 1:00 PDT

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It's time to drag out the Chrissie decorations, put up the tree and get into the spirit of the festive season.

But, the National Asthma Council Australia is warning people with asthma to beware of the hidden asthma triggers lurking amongst all that Christmas merriment.

In fact, according to National Asthma Council Australia Chief Executive Officer, Kristine Whorlow, people with asthma can find themselves short of breath during the holiday season for a host of reasons, starting with the humble Christmas tree itself.

"Most people are unaware that some trees produce high amounts of pollen and pollen can trigger hay fever symptoms and asthma," Kristine Whorlow said.

"Some of the biggest pollen producers include the Cypress family of trees and pine trees - the same trees that we use as the central focus of our Christmas celebrations, often bringing them into our living rooms and work places for weeks on end."

Fake Christmas trees can also be problematic.

"Artificial trees can accumulate dust and even mould - another common asthma trigger - depending on how they have been stored, particularly over the damper winter months," explained Kristine Whorlow.

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.

"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."

Seasonal asthma triggers

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.

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.

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.

Scented Candles

Scented candles have become one of the most popular Christmas gifts and atmospheric decorations. 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

Christmas is a time of many 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.

Source
National Asthma Council Australia

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