Ways to avoid allergies during the holidays

Dec 19 2011 the Health Day News story was as reported by an expert says that holiday decorations, both old and new, can cause asthma attacks and allergic reactions. Dr. Joseph Leija, who is an allergist at Gottlieb Memorial Hospital in Maywood, Ill., notifies us that fresh Christmas trees, poinsettias and boxes that have been stored for months, can potentially react like dust and mold.  In a news release of Loyola University Health System, Leija quote said “The dust from the boxes and on the decorations that have been packed away in dank basements or dusty attics is triggering reactions in my allergy and asthma patients". He presented 5 useful tips to help people with asthma or allergies avoid break outs. One, choose an artificial tree, not fir or pine trees which can worsen respiratory conditions, like asthma and allergies. Those trees also include dust, mites and other pollutants that may worsen your nasal passages. Second, avoid scented candles and oil. The fragrances produced from it will aggravate the sinuses and respiratory system in result causing it harder for people to breathe that have asthma and allergies.  Third, watch out for fresh plants and flowers. Leija stated “The moist soil encourages the growth of mold. And if there is mold in your house, you are breathing mold spores,” When breathing in mold spores clogs airflow and could cause a rash. Fourth, be careful with the humidifier. Leija clarifying “Get a gauge and keep the humidity no higher than 48 to 50 percent", and “Too much humidity encourages the growth of mold, which triggers allergic reactions.” The fifth and last tip, store your decorations in plastic bins. Keeping it in plastic bins helps keep decorations dust and mite free of allergies for the season.

 http://news.health.com/2011/12/19/tips-for-avoiding-asthma-allergy-triggers-this-season/