Pigs in blankets, mulled wine, Christmas trees and the stress of shopping for presents could all trigger potentially deadly asthma attacks, experts warn.
Sufferers’ airways become inflamed and tighten when they come into contact with common irritants.
Now charity Asthma UK has issued a warning to the 5.4million Brits living with the condition to take extra care during the festive period.
Stress is a trigger for almost half of those affected, while cold weather brings its own hazards, with winter to blame for the deaths of 650 people from asthma attacks last year.
The organisation says the drop in temperature, combined with the spread of bugs like colds and flu and even dust from central heating, raises the danger for sufferers.
Dust triggers symptoms in 64 per cent of people, and levels of dust mites can increase from artificial Christmas trees that have been stored in the loft, garage or spare room.
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