Do you ever notice that you sneeze, or wheeze, after getting out those Holiday decorations?  You aren't the only one to cringe at the "fresh pine scent" of Christmas trees.  Molds, pollens, herbicides and fertilizers can cling to the needles and bark and cause both allergic and irritant reactions.  Swapping out for an artifical tree won't necessarily help as mold and dust often collect during storage, leading to symptoms during decorating.

 

Learn more about what causes symptoms to flare, how best to avoid your allergens, and enjoy the holiday season.
 

Respiratory infections frequently trigger asthma, and patients with asthma often have difficulty staying healthy during the cold and flu season.  Annual seasonal influenza vaccines, and this year the H1N1 vaccine, are recommended. 

 

New guidelines also recommend that all patients over age 18 with asthma receive the Pneumococcal Polysacchride Vaccine (PPSV).  This can be given any time of the year, and is generally needed only once prior to age 65 when additional "boosters" are given.  Ask your allergist if you or your child should receive the "pneumonia shot".

 

Before Holiday shopping and decorating, consider your families' allergies and plan accordingly.

 

 

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