Pine allergy is rare, affecting about 1% to 3% of the population. The allergy is caused due to the pollen released by the pine tree. Pine pollen are yellow in color and they can coat objects due to their sticky nature. Pine allergy can cause rash, watery and itchy eyes, runny nose and wheezing.
What Causes Pine Allergy?
Pine allergy is caused when the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies pine pollen as harmful and reacts against it. To fight against the pollen, histamine is released in the body. This results in an allergic reaction.
Pine Allergy Symptoms:
- Watery and Itchy eyes
- Sneezing
- Runny nose/nasal congestion
- Wheezing
- Rashes
Christmas Trees and Pine Allergy:
During Christmas time, most people keep pine trees indoors as Christmas trees. This can result in allergies. However, most allergies are not due to pollen, but are caused due to the mold released by the tree. Dust mites present in the tree can also cause allergy.
Allergy Testing:
Most allergy centers do not test for pine allergy. Hence, you would have to ask them specifically for pine tree allergy test to get yourself tested.
Skin prick test and blood test (RAST) are used to detect pine allergy. Among them, skin prick test is the most reliable.
Treatment:
Antihistamines, decongestants, nasal corticosteriods can be used to treat allergic reaction due to pine tree pollen.
Preventing Pine Allergy:
- Use HEPA-enabled vacuum cleaner to get rid of pine pollen in your home
- Use air filters which can filter out the pollen
- Wear a pollen mask when going outdoors
- Avoid going outdoors when the pollen count is high
Pine allergy is rare, but is still possible. Speak to your allergist if you are doubtful about pine allergy. He/she can conduct allergy tests and give you proper treatment.
More Information on Pine Pollen Allergy
A person with allergy to pine pollen reacts differently when exposed to it. If a pollen particle enters the nose, he or she will sneeze repeatedly. At the same time, his system also releases histamine. This results in nasal congestion. The sufferer’s nose and face may become red. The eyes get a glassy look.
Since pine pollen is heavy and thick, it accumulates near pine trees, which grow all over the United States. If you are allergic to pine pollen, cut and remove all the pine trees inside your property. Or, move to a place where there are no pine trees.
