Is it Cedar Fever Or Covid?

Whether you have lived in South Texas your whole life or have moved into the area, it is this time of year when you start to hear about or feel the effects of “Cedar Fever”. This is not a type of flu or virus but rather a seasonal allergy caused by the pollination of mountain cedar trees.  Mountain cedar is a type of Juniper that is draught resistant and flourishes in the south Texas region.  Unlike many other trees that pollenate in the spring, Junipers are triggered by the cooler weather. The most favorable time for these trees to release pollen is right after a cold front.  The colder conditions cause every pollen cone on the tree to open at once making the Cedar trees literally EXPLODE as it disperses pollen into the air.  This explosion of pollen makes the trees look like they are smoking or “on fire”.

So why is it called “Cedar Fever”? 

This nickname refers to the allergic reaction many suffer from during the Juniper pollination season.  Although the pollen itself is harmless, once inhaled it can trigger an immune response as the body attempts to block what it sees as an intruder. This inflammatory response can closely mimic symptoms like those of the cold, flu, and COVID.  This allergy season has been very unsettling, and it has left many allergy suffers wondering if it’s Cedar or COVID?

What are the symptoms of Cedar Fever?

Cedar fever symptoms include the following:

  • Nasal congestion
  • Fatigue
  • Itchy, watery eyes
  • Itchy sensation all over
  • Partial loss of smell
  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Sore throat
  • Can trigger more sever reactions as wheezing or trouble breathing in persons with allergy induced asthma.

How do Cedar Fever symptoms compare to COVID symptoms?

Like other seasonal allergies, some of the symptoms associated with cedar fever and COVID can overlap.

  • Allergies do not typically cause a fever. With cedar fever, some report a slight increase in temperature due to the body’s inflammatory response, but cedar fever DOES NOT cause a fever higher than 101.5°F (38.6°C).
  • Itchiness is not a common symptom of COVID. With cedar fever, itching is common in the eyes, nose, throat, or even the ears.
  • Difficulty breathing and shortness of breath are uncommon with cedar fever. However, those with allergic asthma may experience flare-ups when exposed to mountain cedar.
  • Dry cough associated with COVID.
  • Gastrointestinal issues and vomiting associated with COVID

How can you control allergic reactions to cedar?

Sufferers often report cedar fever anywhere from November to March. However, the heaviest amounts of pollen produced from Cedar trees is during the months of December through February.

Here are some steps you can take to prevent cedar fever at home:

  • Keep doors and windows closed whenever possible to keep the pollen out.
  • Change your air conditioning filter regularly — about every 3 months. Choosing a HEPA air filter is especially helpful because it filters smaller particles.
  • Check pollen levels before you spend time outdoors.
  • Clean your home regularly to minimize dust and pollen exposure.
  • Take a shower and change your clothes after you go outdoors.
  • Bathe pets frequently.
  • Leave shoes worn outside in the garage or entryway to avoid tracking pollen indoors.
  • Vacuum carpets with a HEPA filter.
  • Wearing a mask not only protects your from COVID it also helps avoid inhaling cedar pollen.

Important Factors during Cedar Season:

  • Most symptoms associated with cedar fever can be controlled or treated with over-the-counter medications. Prescription medications, such as antihistamines or corticosteroid nasal sprays have also been found to be beneficial for the control of Cedar Fever symptoms. It is important to continue taking your allergy and asthma medication as directed or prescribed during the cedar season to avoid “flare-ups” caused by the pollen.
  • This year, we have the added concern of the COVID virus. It is important to keep your respiratory health at its best. If exposed to COVID, symptoms that are typically controlled could be exacerbated due to the impact the virus has on the respiratory system.
  • Stress or strain on the body can weaken the immune system causing it to be more susceptible to viruses or infections.
  • If symptoms are not being controlled or are progressively getting worse, and you may have been exposed to COVID; testing is available at Riverside ER.

When should I see an Emergency Room Near Me?

  • Not all these symptoms ARE associated with Cedar Fever or COVID. When you experience the following symptoms, you should seek help from a qualified medical provider or see us immediately. DO NOT let COVID be a deterrent from seeking emergency care!

    • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
    • Severe asthma attack or flare-up
    • Chest pain or pressure
    • Dizziness and or loss of conscious
    • Sharp decline in energy
    • Blue-ish lips or face
    • Sudden confusion
    • Coughing or vomiting up blood
    • Signs of heart attack
    • Signs of stroke
    • Injuries or falls
    • Severe abdominal pain
    • High fevers in children > 102°, especially if child is lethargic, vomiting, won’t stop crying, or seems confused

    At Riverside ER we are open for 24-hour emergency care.  Our experts are trained and equipped to treat infants to adults.  We encourage you to not ignore, hesitate, or delay being treated by a physician if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above.  We understand concerns and anxiety during this time due to COVID. We would like to assure you that we welcome every patient to a safe, clean, and comfortable environment.