Tree Allergies

Tree allergies can trigger symptoms in unknowing allergy sufferers even when sitting around a campfire this summer.

If you’re sneezing, congested and dabbing your watery eyes in the spring and early summer, blame your trees. Maple, mulberry, and oak trees bloom during this time of year predominantly. Ash, elm, juniper and pine bloom and pollinate at the tail-end of winter and finish by early spring. Asthma-related allergies are common with tree pollen and can be severe in some people. But did you know that even burning the wood from the trees that you are allergic to can trigger these same allergies year-round?

You can suffer the symptoms of tree allergies from wood-burning fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, campfires, even wood dust in woodworking or hobby shops. Inhaled wood dust, in itself, can be hazardous to your health over time. But there are specific types of wood that can worsen allergy symptoms. There are also a few that are toxic. Burning wood, or creating wood dust, releases pollen into the air causing an allergic reaction. This can be a major irritant for people sensitive to smoke. Mixing smoke with released airborne pollen can cause irritation to your eyes, nasal passages, and especially in your lungs. It is also possible to cause skin irritations, hives, and rashes on those who have skin sensitivities.

If you have a confirmed tree/wood allergy, it's important to check for a related family of that wood. Click here for a complete list of trees, their associated families and their associated symptoms. If you are allergic to one type of tree, you will share similar allergic symptoms with any in that related wood family.

Aside from avoiding being around burning wood, you can plan ahead by taking an allergy medication or supplement such as Allergena Trees, Weeds, and Grass. Using this product once daily, can act as a supplement to lessen the severity of these tree allergies. Speaking with your doctor or allergist can help to pinpoint exactly what allergen is causing your symptoms. When you know the root of the problem, it's much easier to take safeguards on being symptom-free.