How to Survive the Holidays with Allergies and Asthma

For people with allergies and asthma, the holidays present health challenges unique to the winter season.  Busier-than-usual social schedules, chilly weather, and cherished family customs combined make staying healthy a daily priority for people with allergies and asthma.  Surviving – and enjoying – the holidays is easier when you plan ahead and take preventative action. Here is a list of tips to use as guidelines to a safe and healthy holiday.

•If a live evergreen tree is something you can’t live without you can try this; wipe the trunk thoroughly with a solution of lukewarm water and diluted bleach (one part bleach to 20 parts water) to eliminate any mold.

•Some evergreens, particularly junipers and cedar, may be pollinating even in winter; look for a yellowish tinge on the trunk and needles.  Before bringing the tree inside, use a leaf blower (in a well-ventilated area away from the house or garage) to remove visible pollen grains.

•If that doesn’t help, artificial trees are the best substitution for live trees as long as they’re not coated with sprayed-on “snow”.   Such additions (including pine-scented sprays or oils) can aggravate asthmatic or allergic symptoms in some people.

•Limit, or eliminate scented candles, potpourri, air fresheners, plant arrangements, and holiday baking with strong odors that can cause discomfort for people with asthma.

•Clean your chimney before that first holiday fire and be sure the flue works properly. Check fireplace vents and keep fireplace doors closed to eliminate as much smoke as possible. Replace fireplace screens with a door.

•Decorations and ornaments stored in the attic, basement, or garage can become coated with dust and mold. Proper storage is the key to making the future festivities fun instead of frustrating.  Thoroughly clean and dry all decorations, seal them in plastic bags, and store the bagged items in airtight containers. If you are extremely sensitive to dust and mold, consider buying a dust mask to wear over your nose and mouth. 
 
•Heating vents can blow accumulated dust and debris throughout your home. Clean or replace filters in your furnace before turning your home heating system on.

•When visiting family or friends, be prepared for possible reactions to everything from pets, to food, to perfume. Never leave home without the appropriate medications, equipment, and a written action plan so that the proper steps can be taken in case of emergency.

Source:  Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America