MUST READ: Allergy-proof your holiday

Although this is the season to be jolly, it’s also the season when dreaded allergies come out in full force – whether it’s because of dust, trees or certain foods.

Follow our guide and advice below and keep those allergies in check.

• Real Christmas trees are a haven for dust and pollen, so rather settle for an artificial tree

• Before hauling your tree inside – whether it’s real or faux fir – hose it down and dry overnight to remove dust and mould or any pesticides that may have been sprayed on the branches

• Alternatively, seek out tree alternatives, such as a driftwood, wire or a cardboard option

• Wipe garlands and Christmas decor with a soft cloth or dry paint brush before hanging. At the end of the season, wrap with fresh paper, rather than reusing old paper

• Steer clear of scented candles as these can cause stuffy noses and irritate the lungs. Unscented beeswax candles or good quality soy options are more allergy-friendly

• When inviting guests over, inquire about any food allergies to make sure your party doesn’t go pear-shaped

• Apply petroleum jelly around the edge of your nostrils to stop pollen from entering your nasal passages

• Do not smoke or surround yourself with second-hand smoke as this can irritate the lining of your nose, eyes and throat

• Avoid spending time in areas abundant in insects. If you find yourself in this environment, avoid wearing strong scents and bright clothing. Cover sweet foods and drinks so that you don’t attract bees and other stinging insects

• Stay indoors on hot, windy days and whenever the pollen count is high

• Make use of an air purifier

• Avoid freshly cut grass

Even though you might take every measurement possible to avoid allergy attacks, often it still occurs. If you are one of those unfortunate ones, here are a few over the counter and prescription medications to help ease the symptoms.

• Antihistamines: to reduce sneezing, sniffling and itching by blocking the effects of histamine in the body.

• Nasal sprays: to clear mucous out of the nasal passageways to relieve congestion and prevent/treat inflammation. Some nasal sprays can also stop your body from releasing histamine before it triggers allergy symptoms such as an itchy, runny nose and sneezing.

• Nasal irrigation: this involves using a syringe to fill the nasal cavities with a saline solution (a mix of salts and water), which reduces crusting and dryness.

• Eye drops: for the relief of itchy, watery eyes.