Cedar fever running hard and fast in the Highland Lakes

JARED FIELDS • PICAYUNE STAFF

MARBLE FALLS — Cedar pollen counts hit some of the highest numbers ever recorded just after the new year, sending noses running and those suffering with them running for remedies.

The “cedar fever” season typically lasts through the end of February, meaning the sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and scratchy throat will hang around for a while longer.

However, a few remedies are available to counter the pesky particles paining your passageways.

“The first course of action is to rinse out your passageways,” said Wanda Spense, wellness consultant at Atkins Pharmacy in Marble Falls. “Saline sprays, a Neti pot, I think those work well.”

Many who suffer from allergies know ahead of time to begin taking homeopathic remedies or over-the-counter antihistamines. However, for those unprepared for cedar pollen, relief from its symptoms remains.

“People should get on medication as quickly as they can,” said Dr. Ray Spaw of Seton Marble Falls Healthcare Center. “As far as homeopathic remedies go, I would hedge my bets with antihistamine.”

The flu also has spread across the Highland Lakes this winter, packing a one-two punch to immune systems.

“We see the flu into April and May. Hopefully, with everybody staying home and school not being open, they’re not spreading the flu,” Spense said. “That’s a good thing about it hitting this time of year.”

Spaw said, while he’s seen very few people suffering from cedar fever and the flu at the same time, it’s a rare occurance.

“It’s not really common to have both at once,” Spaw said. “You can usually tell the difference. You start off the flu with body aches and fever and then, eventually, a runny nose and cough.”

jared@thepicayune.com