Some people have an odd allergic reaction to certain types of wood. It is said that approximately 2% of the general population is allergic to wood dust and to the compounds found in wood. People working in the wood industry have a predisposition to develop this kind of allergy.

Mechanism of the allergic reaction

A wood allergy is an adverse reaction by the immune system caused by chemicals called, quinones. Derivatives from these chemicals bind with skin proteins which are considered by the immune system as foreign. Upon initial contact, the immune system produces antibodies called Immunoglobulin E or IgE in reponse to the specific wood allergen. Cross-reactions to other wood species may also occur.The symptoms can vary among patients but generally, the allergic reaction to wood resembles contact dermatitis with some redness, swelling, blisters, and irritation. In rare cases, individuals might even break out in rashes by simply using a pencil.

On the other hand, wood dust and wood particles can also become airborne and irritate the airways in sensitive individuals and cause sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itching of the eyes and throat. Smoke and ash from wood can also set off an allergic reaction and breathing problems with exposed individuals. Asthma sufferers may even be triggered by the inhalation of wood/saw dust.

What your Doctor can do for you

If you think you are sensitive to wood, consult your doctor or an allergist. Physical evaluation, a medical history, and patch tests will help in finding the cause and rule out other disorders. The treatment will be mainly symptomatic as with other allergies. Antiallergy medications may be prescribed. If the reaction is mostly dermatologic, topical corticosteroids may be given (with prescription).

What you can do

Generally, wood allergy sufferers should avoid contact with wood. Should there be a need to handle wood, be sure to wear protective garments like gloves and long sleeves. Never say no to masks and always work with wood in a well-ventilated area.