Cedar Fever: Winter’s Unexpected Allergy

Not all sneezing, congestion and itchy eyes during the colder months can be attributed to respiratory illnesses. Sometimes, an unexpected culprit might be the cause.

While most trees release pollen in the spring, mountain cedar (or Ashe Juniper) releases pollen in the winter. Common throughout West Central Texas, cedar trees produce large amounts of pollen that can overwhelm the body’s immune system, causing an allergic reaction known as “cedar fever.”

“Cedar fever is not contagious,” said Tamara Cox, MD, with Hendrick Clinic Family Medicine in Brownwood. “But its symptoms can mimic common respiratory illnesses.”

Symptoms of cedar fever include:

• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Runny nose
• Itchy, watery or red eyes
• Sore throat
• Headache or sinus pressure
• Fatigue

Many common over-the-counter medications can alleviate symptoms. Dr. Cox recommends antihistamines, nasal saline spray, sinus rinses, allergy-relief eye drops and cough drops.

Tips to prevent cedar fever include: 

• Limit time outdoors
• Keep windows and doors closed
• Use an air purifier with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter
• Vacuum floors often, especially carpet
• Remove shoes at the front door
• Shower and change and wash clothes after spending time outside
• Bathe pets frequently

“Thankfully, cedar fever is seasonal,” said Dr. Cox. “Symptoms can last through cedar pollen season (typically late fall to early spring) and should resolve on their own.”

If symptoms disrupt daily life or don’t improve with over-the-counter medications, speak with your healthcare provider.