One good thing about Texas’ winter storm: Relief from ‘cedar fever’ allergies

One benefit of a major winter storm in Texas: Allergy relief.

North Texans who have been battling “cedar fever” from juniper pollen since early January will be happy to know that pollen counts have nosedived since the winter storm moved across much of Texas Friday.

We’ve gone from extremely high pollen counts into mid-January, when cedar fever season usually peaks, to hardly nothing this weekend. The much-needed rain we had on Friday before the ice also helped to wash away dust and pollen that’s been lingering on the ground.

Things look good for the next five days, too, as pollen counts will remain “low-medium,” according to Pollen.com.

Cedar fever season begins in December when nearly 9 million acres of Ashe juniper, aka mountain cedar, predominantly in the Texas Hill Country, start releasing trillions of pollen that blows northward into North Texas. Millions of Texans suffer from allergic reactions.

Despite its name, cedar fever isn’t a true fever at all. The “fever” part comes from how the allergic reaction can make you feel: tired, inflamed, and slightly warm.

We’re on the tail end of juniper pollen season, as it usually tapers off by Valentine’s Day.

What are the symptoms of cedar fever?

Cedar fever can mimic a cold or even the flu, which is why many Texans confuse the two. According to the Cleveland Clinic common symptoms include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing and coughing
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Sore or scratchy throat
• Fatigue or mild fever
• Partial loss of smell or taste

One key difference: if your mucus is clear, it’s likely allergies. If it’s colored or cloudy, you may be dealing with a cold or infection instead.

How can I treat cedar fever?

The best treatment depends on how sensitive you are to cedar pollen.

Most people find relief with over-the-counter antihistamines like Claritin, Zyrtec, or Allegra, or nasal sprays such as Flonase. For severe allergies, doctors may recommend prescription medication or allergy shots.

Allergy experts say it’s best to start medication before pollen peaks, since prevention often works better than waiting until symptoms hit.