Dr. Valentina Rozhnova, a dermatologist from Veselības centru apvienība (VCA) Aura, shares how to minimize risks when setting up a green beauty at home. She is assisted by Elena Bebre, the head of Mēness aptieka located in the Gaiļezers hospital of the Riga Eastern Hospital, a certified pharmacist.
When we pull out boxes of Christmas decorations from the cupboards, we can't help but smile: this activity evokes a sense of childlike joy in us, regardless of age, which alleviates the accumulated stress many of us feel. People tend to fall into two groups: some insist on having an artificial tree, while others, the traditionalists, only recognize a live tree. The former love to say that natural trees are dangerous, unhygienic, and that their cutting harms the environment. The latter are convinced that nothing beats the natural fragrant needles of fir branches...
Rule One: Any Tree Must Be Washed!
"Everyone is right: both natural and artificial trees have their pros and cons," smiles Dr. Valentina Rozhnova. "Regardless of the origin of the tree, this main decoration of the holiday can trigger allergic reactions in both children and adults. An artificial tree and ornaments, after lying in a cupboard or on a shelf for almost a year, can accumulate dust that later causes tearing, sneezing, and skin rashes. Some parents often mistake the symptoms of such allergies for a cold, feeding their children (or themselves) completely unnecessary medications, while the issue lies with the tree, baubles, and garlands that have collected a lot of irritants for our noses, lungs, and eyes over 11 months of storage. That’s why, when we take out boxes of Christmas treasures in early to mid-December, unpacking ornaments and garlands, even in the absence of allergies, we start coughing and sneezing together...".
Valentina Rozhnova, press photo
According to the doctor, an artificial tree along with old garlands acts like a vacuum cleaner, collecting dust, and becomes an active source of it with the onset of the holidays. But that doesn’t mean that one shouldn’t buy and reuse an artificial tree. After all, it’s an investment for decades and a humane attitude towards the forests of Latvia!
"To avoid health problems, I strongly recommend thoroughly washing (you can do it right under the shower!) your tree structure to mechanically remove all last year’s household contaminants," insists Dr. VCA Aura Valentina Rozhnova. Simple and effective! "Shake the non-washable garlands in the fresh air," advises the doctor, "you can wear a mask while doing this. Or you can vacuum everything thoroughly."
At the same time, the doctor does not rule out that an allergic reaction can occur not only to an artificial tree but also to a natural one. "Firstly, some species of trees continue to release pollen. Secondly, the trunk of the tree usually contains spores of mold fungi, including those that provoke asthma attacks. The bark and needles of a natural tree can contain more than 50 species of fungi. In a warm room, their spores begin to proliferate rapidly: within the first three to four days in an apartment, a tree can release up to 5,000 spores per square meter, exceeding the permissible concentration for the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. And when these fungi start to multiply actively, suddenly, in a day or two, people around may start experiencing allergic issues.
Therefore, when you bring a live tree into your home, it must also be thoroughly washed with running water first. This will significantly reduce the amount of mold on the trunk (bark and branches) and lower potential allergy symptoms," the doctor strongly advises.
Rule Two: Ventilate the Rooms
"Washing the tree is mandatory, but it does not guarantee the complete disappearance of allergic reactions in some people. Therefore, a day before you set up and decorate your tree, I advise those who are sensitive to various allergens (dust, essential oils, etc.) to take an antihistamine that does not cause drowsiness," says the doctor.
"It is advisable to use second-generation or newer antihistamines, such as cetirizine or loratadine, which are available over the counter," specifies pharmacist Elena Bebre. "Antihistamines reduce sneezing, runny nose, and itching, as they affect the amount of histamine in the body." Additionally, the pharmacist, who often encounters complaints about tearing eyes (from the Christmas tree), recommends using anti-allergic eye drops containing azelastine hydrochloride.
Elena Bebre, press photo
"Modern decongestants allow you to combat the symptoms of allergic rhinitis: nasal vasoconstrictor medications that relieve swelling of the mucous membranes. We, pharmacists, will always advise you on which medication is best for you to have at home. Additionally, using moisturizing eye drops can improve well-being and reduce the impact of allergens. You can also purchase moisturizing eye drops at the pharmacy after consulting with us, pharmacists, which is particularly relevant in winter due to dryness in the rooms. Please pay attention to the expiration date of such medications: usually, eye drops can be used for one to three months after opening," clarifies pharmacist Elena Bebre.
Dermatovenerologist Valentina Rozhnova advises to ventilate the room where you have set up the decorated tree more often: it is easy to do and reduces the risk of allergies significantly.
"Moreover, I always recommend: if you suspect you have an allergy to 'something unknown', undergo special testing in a laboratory. Today, science allows for the precise identification of reactions to more than 300 allergens, including food. For example, the Centrālā laboratorija has developed panels of tests that include various allergens, which will help you find your internal enemy and combat it," says Dr. Valentina Rozhnova.
If after setting up the New Year symbol you notice that you are sniffling, it is likely that the tree is attacking with irritants. Possible symptoms of tree allergy include coughing, sneezing, nasal congestion, red itchy eyes, rash, hives, skin itching, and sore throat.
"You can buy an ointment (with the active ingredient dimetindene) at the pharmacy, which will relieve skin condition from allergic itching," advises the pharmacist.
Rule Three: Know the Benefits of Coniferous Plants!
Natural trees release resinous substances, which can also cause allergic reactions. In addition, the essential oils contained in the trees can irritate the respiratory tract. Be attentive to your well-being during the festive tree period.
However, according to Dr. Valentina Rozhnova, if you do not have an allergy to a natural tree, the essential oils (phytoncides) released by fresh needles will be beneficial. They purify and disinfect the air in the apartment, and they also have a very positive effect on the nervous system and improve mood.
"Coniferous plants are a treasure of Latvia," confirms pharmacist Elena Bebre. "The pharmacist will tell you that herbal medications from pine (there are many) have expectorant, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving effects. Pine buds (which can be purchased as a collection) are used in the form of decoctions for colds, inflammation of the respiratory tract, bronchi, rheumatism, and skin diseases. Additionally, there are preparations like mixtures that improve gastrointestinal function, which will help our stomachs endure the abundance of festive treats," smiles the pharmacist and recommends consulting with doctors and pharmacists in any unclear case of strange allergies during the New Year.
Happy holidays, may they be healthy and joyful for you!
Tip: on the website menessaptieka.lv you will find all the festive offers (there are many and they are interesting) from Mēness aptieka.
