Cedar Fever and Other Winter Allergies

Cedar Fever and Other Winter Allergies

Winter is not generally a season associated with allergies, but certain pollens and indoor allergens mean that November through March is still an allergy season that affects many people. While cold weather generally means less time outside, these winter allergies can still affect you.

Knowing what to do to avoid allergies or treat symptoms once you have them can keep you feeling well during the winter season. Here we'll discuss cedar fever as well as some other winter allergens to be aware of.

What Is Cedar Fever?

The name cedar fever can be a little misleading. Rather than a fever caused by illness, this is an allergic response caused by pollen released from mountain cedar trees.

If you live somewhere where these trees are common, such as Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, or Oklahoma, you may notice seasonal allergies from these trees in the winter.

What Are the Symptoms of Cedar Fever?

Cedar fever symptoms are similar to many common allergy symptoms, including nasal congestion, itchiness, and sneezing. As the name suggests, some people may notice a warmer body temperature as part of their symptoms.

It is important to remember that this is more of a slight warmness rather than an intense fever. If a person has a high fever, they are likely suffering from sickness and should consider seeing a doctor if their symptoms do not fade.

How Do You Treat Cedar Fever?

Cedar fever should not put you at risk for any health complications, but the symptoms can be uncomfortable. The following are a few ways you can treat the symptoms of cedar fever at home:

  • Prescription medications
  • Over-the-counter decongestants
  • Over-the-counter allergy medications

Remember to always read and follow the instructions of any medication you are taking. Prescription medications tend to be stronger than over-the-counter options and may be necessary for people with extreme symptoms.

Other Winter Allergies

In addition to cedar fever, other allergies in winter may be the cause of similar symptoms. Winter in Oklahoma is usually a cold season. If you notice congestion, itchy eyes, and a sore throat, it is important to consider whether an allergen or a cold is the cause.

Colds are more likely to cause body aches and fever but should begin to fade after a week or two, whereas winter allergy symptoms often cause more itchiness and irritation and can last for months.

Indoor Allergens

Cold winter weather often means you spend more time inside. Unfortunately, this isn't always enough to avoid allergens. A few potential allergens can be present inside of homes.

Pet dander can be a major culprit for anyone allergic to specific animals. Other things that can cause flare-ups are dust mites, cockroach droppings, and mold.

How To Prevent Winter Allergies

As the holiday season approaches and weather continues to get colder, no one wants to let winter allergies slow them down. Here are a few ways you can prevent exposure to allergies in your home:

  • Close windows and replace air filters to keep pollen out.
  • Clean up any potential sources of mold, dust, or cockroaches.
  • Vacuum and clean regularly.
  • Replace carpeting with wood floors on another smooth-surface option

Most winter allergies can be treated using medications similar to those described above to treat cedar fever symptoms.

Conclusion

Winter allergies can be a big inconvenience, so it is important to plan ahead to prevent them and treat any symptoms that arise. Treating allergies of all kinds in Oklahoma and surrounding areas is our specialty at the Oklahoma Allergy & Asthma Clinic. Contact us for help getting your winter allergies under control.

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