Cedar Fever: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of cedar fever?

Cedar fever, also known as cedar allergy or mountain cedar allergy, is a seasonal allergic reaction to pollen from the juniperus ashei tree, commonly known as mountain cedar or Ashe juniper. Symptoms of cedar fever typically appear when the tree releases pollen into the air, which often occurs in late fall and winter. Symptoms can include:

1. Sneezing: Frequent and repetitive sneezing, often accompanied by a runny or congested nose.
2. Runny or congested nose: Excessive nasal discharge or congestion, which can lead to difficulty breathing through the nose.
3. Itchy, watery eyes: Irritation and redness of the eyes, along with itching and excessive tearing.
4. Coughing: Persistent coughing, which may be dry or produce phlegm.
5. Sore throat: Irritation and discomfort in the throat, often due to postnasal drip.
6. Fatigue: Feeling tired or lethargic, which can be a result of the body’s immune response to the allergen.
7. Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches or sinus pressure as a result of the allergic reaction.
8. Ear congestion: Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears due to congestion in the nasal passages.
9. Wheezing: In some cases, cedar fever can lead to wheezing or difficulty breathing, especially in individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
10. General malaise: A feeling of overall discomfort or illness, which can accompany the other symptoms of cedar fever.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary from person to person. If you suspect you have cedar fever, it’s advisable to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications to manage symptoms.

What are the causes of cedar fever?

Cedar fever is caused by an allergic reaction to pollen from the juniperus ashei tree, commonly known as mountain cedar or Ashe juniper. The pollen from these trees is released into the air during the late fall and winter months, typically from December to March. When individuals with a sensitivity to cedar pollen inhale it, their immune system identifies the pollen as a threat and produces antibodies to attack it, leading to the release of histamines and other chemicals that cause allergic symptoms.

Several factors can contribute to the severity of cedar fever symptoms, including:

1. Pollen count: Higher levels of cedar pollen in the air can increase the likelihood and severity of allergic reactions.
2. Exposure: The more time spent outdoors, especially in areas with high cedar tree populations, the greater the exposure to cedar pollen.
3. Sensitivity: Individuals vary in their sensitivity to cedar pollen, with some experiencing mild symptoms and others experiencing more severe reactions.
4. Other allergens: Exposure to other allergens, such as mold spores or dust mites, can exacerbate cedar fever symptoms.
5. Pre-existing conditions: People with asthma or other respiratory conditions may experience more severe symptoms when exposed to cedar pollen.

It’s important to note that cedar fever is not caused by the cedar wood used in furniture or closets, but rather by the pollen from the juniperus ashei tree. Avoiding exposure to cedar pollen, using air filters, and taking antihistamines or other allergy medications can help manage cedar fever symptoms.

What is the treatment for cedar fever?

The treatment for cedar fever, or mountain cedar allergy, aims to relieve symptoms and reduce the body’s allergic response to cedar pollen. Here are some common treatments and strategies:

1. Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec), or fexofenadine (Allegra) can help relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
2. Decongestants: Oral or nasal decongestants like pseudoephedrine can help reduce nasal congestion. However, they should be used with caution and for a short duration due to the risk of rebound congestion.
3. Nasal corticosteroids: Prescription or over-the-counter nasal corticosteroid sprays such as fluticasone (Flonase) or mometasone (Nasonex) can help reduce inflammation and relieve nasal symptoms.
4. Eye drops: Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops can help relieve itchy, watery eyes.
5. Allergy shots (immunotherapy): For severe cedar fever symptoms that do not respond to other treatments, allergen immunotherapy may be recommended. This involves regular injections of small amounts of cedar pollen to desensitize the immune system.
6. Avoidance of allergens: Minimize exposure to cedar pollen by staying indoors on windy days, keeping windows closed, using air purifiers with HEPA filters, and showering and changing clothes after being outdoors.
7. Saline nasal irrigation: Rinsing the nasal passages with a saline solution can help remove allergens and relieve congestion.
8. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce fever and relieve headache or body aches associated with cedar fever.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication, especially if you have other medical conditions or are taking other medications. They can help determine the most appropriate treatment based on your symptoms and medical history.