Cedar is back... earlier than expected

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- It was only a matter of time before the most dreaded of the Central Texas pollens started to affect the area. It's the pollen that seems to cause the worst of the allergies.

We normally don't start seeing numbers show up until the middle of December. However, the Austin area saw its first cedar numbers of the season on November 23.

Cedar season normally peaks in mid-January during which we can see counts in the thousands and ten thousands. In a typical season, we see numbers begin to decline by mid-February. However, cedar has been known to show up in March and even into early April.

Dr. Amin Mery is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with Hill Country Allergy and Asthma. He spoke with KXAN's Rich Segal about the cedar season.

He said he is already treating allergy sufferers for cedar fever. He added that more of his patients are also dealing with sinus issues.

The population of Central Texas continues to grow each day. Dr. Mery said it is possible that the cedar trees could impact those new to the area. Some people are fortunate never to have any impacts from cedar fever.

Some people get relief by purchasing over-the-counter medications while others do better with prescribed medications and sprays. But there is also a portion of cedar sufferers who need immunology treatments that include injections of allergy drops containing the cedar pollen to help build immunity.

Another helpful bit of advice is to practice allergen avoidance. Keep windows closed, wash clothes and linens in hot water, shower after you get home, and bathe pets more frequently.

One other important thing that people should do is to not self-diagnose. Cedar fever, as aforementioned, is debilitating, so seeing a medical practitioner will be more efficient in helping you feel better.