Christmas Trees and Allergies
Christmas Trees and Allergies – https://acaai.org/allergies/types-allergies/pine-tree-allergy
“While pine tree allergy is relatively uncommon, there are two main allergens of concern that come from pine trees: pine nuts and pine pollen. Pine nuts (pignoli) are the edible seeds of certain species of pine trees, and are used in a variety of foods, including Italian pesto. Pine nut consumption has increased due to its use in the Mediterranean Diet. Pine pollen is produced when the trees reproduce in the springtime. It is possible for pollen to travel very long distances in the air.” — ACAAI News https://acaai.org/news/
Symptoms of pine pollen allergies are much like “hay fever” and typically include:
- Itchy tearing red eyes
- Bags under the eyes
- Runny nose with or without sneezing and congestion
- Coughing
In some cases pollen may aggravate asthma.
Pine nut allergies are much like other tree nut allergies in that they can cause anaphylactic reactions. Symptoms may vary from mild to severe and include:
- Tightness in the chest and difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the tongue, throat, nose and lips
- Hives or rash
- Abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and/or vomiting
- Dizziness and fainting or loss of consciousness
- Shock and heart failure
If you have an anaphylactic reaction, even if it is mild, consult your allergist as these symptoms won’t go away. Symptoms include those listed above and:
- Itchy throat
- Sneezing
- Abdominal discomfort
Citation: ACAAI News https://acaai.org/news/
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