If you didn't know better you'd think Mountain Cedar allergies occur in the mountains. Surprisingly, this allergen often occurs in central Texas (where the cedars grow in huge numbers) in the winter months, lasting often from December through April. If your allergies are triggered by these trees, here are 7 answers to know.
Why is it sometimes called Cedar Fever? That's a good question. Like hay fever the term is a misnomer. There is generally no fever involved. The term simply refers to allergic rhinitis, or swelling of the nasal linings and passages because of the body's overreaction to the pollen produced by these trees.
When is the peak season? New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Texas are the most affected areas, and the trees can begin pollination as early as October, peak during December, January, and February and have significant levels continue through March and sometimes into April.
What does the tree look like? It is an evergreen tree that can grow to an impressive 30 feet in height. And unlike the pine, it has more of a leaf than a needle.
Is cedar pollen toxic? If you are sensitive to this potent allergen it can cause you to feel like death warmed over, but the pollen is not toxic. It does, however, create vicious symptoms including watering eyes, congestion, sneezing, coughing, and feeling tired because of the body's constant struggle to ward off what it feels is a threat.
Even though the following statement may not be an emotional help, you should be aware that you share those symptoms with millions of other who suffer from hay fever triggered tree, grass, or weed pollen other than the cedar.
Will cutting down cedars stop cedar fever? The tiny granules called pollen can and do travel for miles. So it is unrealistic to believe that cutting down the cedars close to you will eliminate or even minimize your contact with the irritant.
On a windy day, the pollen you're breathing can have been blown in for the town next to where you live! And unless you are absolutely certain that the tree you are cutting is a male, it will have all been for naught.
What can be done for relief outdoors? Planning outdoor time is key. Levels are generally highest between in the mornings between 5 and 10 a.m. Windy days are good days to stay indoors. And keeping abreast of the daily pollen count in your area will keep you as comfortable as possible.
There are over-the-counter and prescription drugs that can control symptoms for the short-term. There are also prescription drugs that can help desensitize your body's reaction to the allergen. Allergy shots are a more gradual and hopefully more permanent solution to desensitizing the body's reaction.
What can help with indoor relief? Minimize air exchange by keeping windows and doors closed. Take off clothes that have been worn outside immediately and put them in a container so any pollen cannot escape into the air. When possible, shower to remove pollen from hair and skin.
Use a HEPA or high efficiency particle arresting vacuum to clean surfaces and a HEPA air cleaner to airborne pollen and other allergens from the air.
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