FACT SHEET

WINTER HOLIDAY ALLERGIES

• Though many people think of spring and summer as peak allergy season, millions of Americans suffer from indoor allergies during the winter months, especially around the holidays.

• Common allergy symptoms are sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes and skin irritations.

• Many people are allergic to a substance called terpene found in the oil or sap of Christmas trees, and evergreen wreaths and garlands.  These allergy sufferers should avoid natural Christmas trees and decorations.

• Dust mite allergy is extremely common, and many people suffer allergic reactions when they take the holiday ornaments out of the attic or basement where they have been collecting dust for several months.

• Eggs, nuts and mint – ingredients found in many holiday treats including egg nog, cookies and candy – are common food allergens, and allergic reactions to them are common this time of year.

• People with severe allergies should see an allergist to learn how to get through the holiday season.  Avoiding allergy triggers is the first line of defense.  There are many medications available, and allergy shots (also known as immunotherapy) can bring immediate and long-term relief.

• Immunotherapy is a safe, effective treatment for people who suffer from a variety of allergic diseases.  It works by introducing small amounts of purified substances to which the person is allergic, in increasing amounts over time.  Allergy shots improve the patient’s natural resistance to the allergens by decreasing sensitivity to particular allergens.

• Rush immunotherapy is an accelerated regimen of allergy shots that speeds up the desensitization process.  Conventional allergy shots may take several weeks to a few months to provide significant relief.  Rush immunotherapy can desensitize some allergy sufferers and bring them relief within one to three days.

The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) has more information that can help you get your allergies and asthma under control.  Call its toll-free number 800-842-7777 or visit www.acaai.org.