With the change in weather also comes a change in the allergens that fill our air. Mountain cedar season is on its way with December, January and February being its heaviest months. Mountain cedar grows naturally in this region and is considered to be the most allergenic tree in Central Texas.

Common symptoms of “Cedar Fever” include sneezing, nasal blockage, runny nose and itchy and watery eyes. Other symptoms can include fatigue, mild headache, sore throat, partial loss of smell and the sensation of ear plugging.

According to Dr. Karkhanis, one of our board certified physicians, the best way to beat cedar fever is to prepare for it early with these steps:

• GET TESTED BY A BOARD-CERTIFIED ALLERGIST: Visiting one of our board-certified providers for an allergy skin test is the best way to get a definitive answer about your allergies. This will lead to better treatment of your exact symptoms instead of wasting time and money treating the incorrect illness.
• START YOUR MEDICATIONS EARLY: After your skin test, your allergist will discuss what medications are needed and if you are a candidate for allergy drops or shots. It is recommended that you begin your medication several weeks prior to the start of the season. This will reduce your likelihood of experiencing those irritating cedar fever symptoms instead of trying to treat the symptoms after they have started.

Once the mountain cedar season begins, it is also important to reduce your pollen exposure by taking the following actions:

• Reduce pollen from entering your home by changing air filters regularly, keeping windows and doors closed, bathing pets often, and showering and changing clothes after being outdoors.
• Reduce pollen exposure when outdoors by keeping car windows closed and decreasing your time spent outside on days when the pollen count is high.

If you believe you suffer from allergies caused by mountain cedar, call Allergy SA at 210-616-0882 to schedule an appointment with one of our board certified allergists. Same day appointments are available.