Cedar fever is a term commonly used in areas of the country where Mountain Cedar is prevalent. South Texas (including the DFW area) tends to have high pollen counts related to Mountain Cedar. Mountain Cedar generally pollinates in the winter (December through March).  During this season Mountain Cedar appears as smoke from trees with plumes of dense white pollen. Individuals allergic to Mountain Cedar tend to have intense symptoms that affect the eyes, nose and throat and several cases restricting outdoor activity. Not only does Mountain Cedar pollen trigger strong allergic reactions it is produced in such huge quantities in this area, that the pollen simply overpowers most allergy remedies. Cedar fever symptoms can be very difficult to control without seeking help from an Allergist. Mountain Cedar tends to wear people out and the fatigue and malaise that comes with experiencing so many symptoms at once can make a person emotionally distressed, irritable and moody. Many people are unable to concentrate at work or school, so job performance and grades tend to suffer during Cedar Fever season.

Here's what helps:

• Showering and washing hair helps rinse off pollen and stops a person inhaling pollen all night long.
• All doors and windows should be kept closed when the pollen count is high.
• Homes should be cleaned at least once a week, including dusting with a damp cloth, vacuuming rugs and carpets and washing bedding in hot water.
• Vents leading to the outdoors should be covered with cheesecloth, and high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters should be used in air conditioning units.
• When these measures along with regular allergy medicines fail it may be time to consider allergy shots.

      How can you "Sniff and Tell"?

Sniffles and sneezes are common during winter months, however if your 'cold' symptoms tend to occur at the same time every year, develop suddenly and last more than a week, you may need to visit an allergist to be tested for winter allergies. Culprits such as mold and dust mites and animal dander can leave you feeling miserable as you tend to spend more time indoors during the winter months and if left untreated can lead to complications like Sinusitis. Proper diagnosis and treatment can lead to faster recovery and less misery.