While not as widely known as spring and fall seasonal allergies in general, mountain cedar allergy is one of the most severe winter allergies in Texas. The pollen from mountain cedar trees causes what is commonly known as cedar fever – intense allergy symptoms that cause significant discomfort to adults and children. Understanding these unique characteristics can help people with mountain cedar allergy better manage their symptoms.
Differences Between Mountain Cedar Allergy and Other Seasonal Allergies
The well-known mountain cedar tree that’s native to Texas is actually a type of juniper – specifically the ashe juniper (Juniperus ashei). For those living close to stands of these trees, exposure to cedar pollen can trigger severe allergic reactions. So how does this type of allergy differ from other seasonal allergies?
Pollination Season
In contrast to most plants that release pollen in spring or fall, mountain cedar trees pollinate in the winter. Many Texans already know that cedar fever season can run from December through March, a time when many people with hay fever are experiencing some relief. Cedar fever can bring on itchy eyes and throat, watery eyes, runny nose, cough, sneezing and congestion. Note that some people who are sensitive to mountain cedar pollen may have symptoms as early as November.
Pollen Volume
Male mountain cedar trees release large quantities of pollen during the winter months. Each tree can produce billions of pollen grains that are often visible as they spread through the air. This exceptional pollen output is higher than the majority of trees that cause the common seasonal allergies experienced at other times of the year.
Geographic Concentration
Many common seasonal allergens like ragweed, grass pollen and birch or oak tree pollens are found across much of the country. However, mountain cedar allergies are more regionally specific. In the U.S. ashe juniper grows in Texas, as well as parts of Oklahoma, Arkansas and Missouri, and the tree is also native to northeast Mexico. In the areas where a high concentration of mountain cedar trees grow, expect high pollen counts during winter.
Rapid Spread of Pollen
Mountain cedar pollen can spread quickly via windy conditions, leading to the fast onset of symptoms. People with this allergy may feel fine one moment, then suddenly experience a runny nose, itchy eyes, itchy throat and/or sneezing. You may find that predicting the arrival of cedar fever symptoms is more difficult than for other seasonal allergies.
Severe Symptoms
Those with hay fever and other seasonal allergies may be familiar with the mild to moderate symptoms pollen exposure can bring. However, mountain cedar allergy is known for triggering more intense reactions that are often mistaken for a cold or the flu, sometimes with the feeling that you are running a fever. However, when checked the results usually show that no fever is present – hence the name, “cedar fever.” If you notice any symptoms during the winter, speak with an allergist for personalized allergy treatments.
Expert Seasonal Allergy Care in North Texas
TexasAllergyMD offers patient-centered allergy testing and management from our allergy treatment centers in McKinney/Prosper and Southlake. For help with mountain cedar allergy and other seasonal allergies, contact us today. Call (469) 375-1525 or request an appointment now.
