If you’ve been sneezing more than usual since you put up the Christmas tree, you could be suffering from “Christmas tree syndrome.” This allergic reaction to a Christmas tree or decoration can cause symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and wheezing.

According to UCLA Health, a small percentage of people face weeks of allergic symptoms after bringing their Christmas trees home.  For these sufferers, the tree doesn’t just bring a fresh scent and connection with nature — it induces an allergic reaction.

Experts note that Christmas tree syndrome can also occur with artificial trees, as well as other Christmas decorations, due to allergens like dust, pollen, and mold.

Most people with this condition aren’t allergic to the tree itself. Terpenes, the compounds that give Christmas trees their scent, can sometimes cause an allergic reaction if touched or smelled. Christmas trees can also be covered in allergens like dust, pollen and mold.

According to the American Christmas Tree Association, studies found that Christmas trees can carry about 50 different types of molds, which can increase the number of mold spores in a home by more than six times. The longer the tree stays up, the higher the mold spore count can get.

Mold can mess with your respiratory tract, trigger breathing issues and cause symptoms such as asthma attacks, wheezing, sneezing, coughing and itchy, watery eyes. Artificial trees can also cause allergic reactions, says FOX 2 Detroit, if they are not stored properly.

Shake out the tree — either real or artificial ─ before bringing it in the house to remove excess debris, advises allergist Dr. Devon Preston of the Cleveland Clinic. If you have a real pine tree, you can rinse the tree with a hose but make sure to dry it thoroughly before bringing it inside. You can also use an air compressor to blow away debris.

Once you have set up the tree, place an air purifier near it to help catch any allergens you’ve missed.

Christmas ornaments, wreaths, and decorations may also be contributing to your allergy symptoms. After sitting in a box all year, they are likely covered in dust or mold. Unwrap them outside if possible and vacuum or wipe them down before bringing them inside. To avoid dusty ornaments altogether, decorate your tree with just lights and brand-new ribbon each year.

Preston recommends storing all decorations, including artificial trees, in airtight containers to cut down on annual maintenance. He recommends getting rid of real trees right after the holiday season since dust and mold accumulate when the tree is indoors.

If these tips don’t solve your symptoms, it doesn’t mean you have to go without a Christmas tree, says UCLA Health. When all else fails, set up a decorated tree outside a patio door or large window so you can enjoy it from inside.