Support Us Button Widget

How to survive cedar fever, according to readers

Don’t sniffle in silence — try these tips from fellow readers.

A close up on a cedar branch.

Due to the ongoing drought, cedar pollen counts are expected to be slightly lower than usual.

Photo by Adam Kring

Table of Contents

According to our recent poll, at least 64% of you catch cedar fever symptoms at least some years, and you were very generous with your survival tips. As for the 29% of you who never have symptoms — consider yourself lucky.

Cedar pollen tends to peak from January-February, so now’s the time to strap in for the long haul. We’re not doctors, so remember these tips aren’t a substitute for professional medical advice.

Over-the-counter medications 💊

  • Most readers said they prefer a daily antihistamine like Zyrtec or Claritin, which they start taking around November before symptoms start to flare up.
  • Many readers also cited success with nasal sprays and allergy drops.

Allergy shots 💉

  • Securing the second most recommendations behind antihistamines, 10% of you swear by getting allergy shots.

At-home treatments 🧽

  • Keep your home as clean and free of pollen as possible by wiping down pets, changing clothes, and/or bathing after extended periods of time outside.
  • Using a nasal rinse and taking hot showers can help soothe congestion.
  • For the few of you that cope through leaving town or “complaining” — I felt that.

According to the Mayo Clinic, it may be time to see a doctor if none of these treatments work and symptoms persist.

More from ATXtoday
Peruse two-dimensional pieces created by 40 unhoused or at-risk artists for free until Sunday, Sept. 29.
Don’t watch the games without something good to drink, a big screen to tune into, and the company of your fellow Austinites.
Ah, we can just picture that Olympics podium and those shiny medals now.
Here’s where you can find ATXtoday City Editor Morgan sippin’ around town.
The Texas Restaurant Awards recognized a handful of foodservice industry favorites in the Austin area.
Whether you’re on the hunt for whiskey, tequila, gin, rum, or something entirely different, we’ve found a Texas-owned spirit to sip.
Here’s a cocktail for every hue in the kaleidoscopic.
Here’s your guide to unique experiences on Lake Austin and Lady Bird Lake.
A turn of phrase here, a recognizable Austin nod there — these craft beers found around ATX take local pride seriously.
If you want to drink like ATXtoday City Editor Laura Figi, here’s your chance to tour some of her mainstays in town.