It is the “most wonderful time of the year” unless you suffer from Cedar Fever. If you are an allergy sufferer living anywhere within a broad strip of Central Texas that stretches from the Red River to the Rio Grande, you already know the misery that the pollen of the native mountain cedar tree causes. Cedar allergies can affect Texans from November through March, but December, January and February are the peak months. This is the time when cedar trees pollinate, releasing countless pollen particles into the air that can travel on the wind for hundreds of miles. The exact timing and severity of the cedar pollination season is influenced by rainfall amounts and other weather conditions.
Cedar pollen is considered one of the most allergy-inducing pollens due to the large amount of pollen that the trees can produce and the large size of the pollen.
So do you have the Flu or Cedar Fever? The symptoms of Cedar Fever can be brutal but the flu comes with a few extra symptoms. Cedar fever symptoms may include itchy, watery, red eyes; nasal congestion, runny nose and sinus pressure; sneezing; sore throat and fatigue. Despite its name, cedar fever doesn’t cause a fever, but inflammation triggered by the allergic reaction may raise the body temperature slightly. Of course, if you suspect you have the flu it is always wise to see a medical provider right away to get tested in order to minimize spreading the virus.
What can you do about your Cedar Fever? Cedar Fever treatment can start with limiting your exposure to the pollen as much as possible by staying indoors, using your HVAC, dusting and vacuuming to rid the living spaces of the pollen as much as possible. Start with over the counter medications to treat your symptoms. Your medical provider can provide suggestions as to which may be most effective.
If your Cedar Fever symptoms are more severe, prescription strength over the counter medications may last longer and be more effective. The providers at My Urgent Care Clinic can prescribe these medications as well as oral or nasal corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory medications. My Urgent Care Clinic in Boerne welcomes walk-in patients every day of the week from 8am-8pm so you can be seen at the most convenient time for your schedule. My Urgent Care Clinic is loacted at 910 River Road in Boerne and can be reached at 830-331-2391. Don't wait to feel better!
