In December of last year, over 9,000 individuals in England were hospitalized due to asthma attacks, with this number decreasing to 6,390 by February. This seasonal spike raises the question: why does the festive period pose such a risk to those with lung conditions? Despite the season’s charm, with its mulled wines and sparkling decorations, Christmas can lead to a surge in symptoms like breathlessness, wheezing, and coughing, potentially turning holiday cheer into a hospital visit. Dr. Andrew Whittamore, the clinical lead at Asthma + Lung UK, sheds light on holiday triggers and offers advice on how to protect your health during the season.

FAKE AND REAL FRIGHTS

A phenomenon known as Christmas Tree Syndrome could be to blame, where allergens from both real and artificial trees exacerbate lung conditions. While real trees bring in unseen mould spores and pollen that thrive in warm indoor environments, artificial trees can accumulate dust during storage, both of which may worsen symptoms for those with respiratory issues. To mitigate these risks, it’s advisable to shake and rinse real trees before bringing them inside and store artificial trees in airtight containers to prevent dust buildup. Dusting an artificial tree with a vacuum or damp cloth before decorating can also help.

Asthma + Lung UK conducted a survey revealing that nearly a third of respondents with lung conditions identified mould and fungi as triggers, while about half reported dust as a culprit. This highlights the importance of managing these environmental factors during the holiday season.

While festive foods and drinks are often a highlight of the season, some may pose risks for those with lung conditions. Ingredients in processed meats like sausages, mulled wine, pickled foods, vinegars, dried fruits, and gravies often contain sulphites, which can irritate the airways and provoke symptoms such as coughing and wheezing in individuals with asthma and COPD.

FOOD AND DRINK

The ambiance created by scented candles and perfumes can also be problematic. Burning candles release fumes that trigger asthma symptoms, and certain fragrances in perfumes and aftershaves contain chemicals that can worsen conditions. According to Asthma + Lung UK, 39% of those surveyed said aerosols and perfumes aggravated their lung issues. To minimize exposure, use these products in well-ventilated areas, or consider avoiding them altogether if they are known triggers for you.

PRESENT DANGERS

Scented candles are popular gifts and smell lovely when lit. But when burned, these products create fumes that can be a trigger for many people with asthma. Some perfumes and aftershaves also contain chemicals which can be a trigger, making your lung condition symptoms worse. Asthma + Lung UK found that 39% of people said aerosols and perfumes triggered their lung condition. To protect yourself, use candles and spray perfumes and aftershaves in a larger, well-aired space rather than anywhere smaller. Alternatively, avoid them completely if they are a trigger.

PROBLEMS WITH PETS

Many people like to bring their dogs and cats along to Christmas gatherings, but this could be problematic. Almost 17% of people with lung conditions surveyed by Asthma + Lung said pets were a trigger. Not everyone with a lung condition is allergic to pets, but if you are, you may notice your symptoms get worse around animals. This is because allergens found in an animal’s skin (called dander) that can flake, and chemicals in the pet’s saliva and urine can trigger an allergic reaction.

So it may be wise to ask a pet owner to leave their pet outside, at home, or in another room if you’re spending time together over Christmas. Taking antihistamines can help alleviate your allergic symptoms.

DISASTER DECORATIONS

Dust mites love warm conditions, so when the heating is on during winter, they can multiply and spread on decorations that have been stored away all year. Mould may also grow on decorations that have been in storage. Both dust and mould are potential triggers if you have a lung condition as your airways can be more sensitive.

This means that when you come into contact with triggers like dust or mould, your airways can become more inflamed and tighten, leaving you struggling for breath.

Getting someone else to unpack, shake out and wipe down your baubles, tinsel and garlands outdoors, before you put them up, is always a good idea if dust and mould are triggers foryou.

RAMPING UP THE STRESS

Bickering and disagreements among family members and battling through crowds of shoppers to buy last-minute gifts can all build up to an overload of stress over Christmas.

Stress is a trigger for a third of people with a lung condition. When you’re stressed, your immune system may not work as well, making it easier to catch colds or other respiratory infections.

These illnesses can trigger asthma attacks, cause stronger symptoms, or make your lung condition feel harder to manage. It might sound impossible over the festive period, but try to keep stress levels as low as possible. Things like eating well, doing exercise, getting enough sleep and connecting with people who can support you, can help, as well as ensuring you are taking your medications as prescribed.