1059SHU Shutterstock
2630988871
Cedar pollen blown away by the wind
Every winter, North Texans brace for a notorious seasonal allergy known as "cedar fever". Despite its deceptive name, cedar fever is not a viral infection and rarely causes a true fever. Instead, it is a severe allergic reaction to the fine, highly concentrated pollen released by mountain cedar (Ashe juniper) trees typically from late December through February. While these trees are predominant in Central Texas, strong winds like those seen in recent days can carry billions of microscopic pollen grains directly into the Dallas-Fort Worth area. See this Kleenex pollen forecaster for DFW that is most likely triggering some intense allergic responses.
Kleenex.com
Kleenex Pollen Forecast for DFW.
Typical Symptoms The sudden, intense onset of cedar fever can easily be mistaken for a winter cold or the flu. Typical symptoms include a clear runny nose, severe nasal congestion, explosive sneezing fits, and itchy, watery eyes. Many sufferers also report experiencing fatigue, sinus facial pressure, mild headaches, a sore or itchy throat, and even a temporary partial loss of smell.
How to Alleviate Symptoms Fortunately, there are several ways to alleviate the discomfort:
Limit Exposure: Stay indoors and keep your home and car windows closed on dry, windy days when pollen counts are extreme.
Purify the Air: Reduce indoor allergens by using HEPA air purifiers and frequently changing your HVAC air filters.
Wash Away Pollen: Make it a habit to shower, wash your hair, and change clothes after spending time outside to remove clinging pollen grains from your body.
Use OTC Medications: Over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays, and saline rinses are highly effective as a first line of defense to manage congestion and itching.
When to Go to a Doctor While at-home treatments work for many, you should consult an allergy doctor if your symptoms are persistent or severe. An allergist can offer testing and provide long-term solutions like prescription medications or immunotherapy (allergy shots or under-the-tongue drops) to build your tolerance over time.