How is cedar fever diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually based on a patient’s history and a physical examination. A CT scan of the sinuses may be recommended to determine whether a sinus infection is present, which can guide treatment.
How is cedar fever treated?
Cedar fever is treated similarly to other forms of allergic rhinitis, using medications, immunotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments.
Medications for allergies include oral antihistamines such as cetirizine (Zyrtec®), loratidine (Claritin®), and fexofenadine (Allegra®). These are usually once daily tablets that reduce allergy symptoms by blocking the effects of histamine, which causes several symptoms of cedar fever. Nasal antihistamine sprays such as azelastine (Astelin®, Astepro®) have a similar effect, but are limited to the nasal cavity. Nasal steroid sprays such as fluticasone (Flonase®) or mometasone (Nasonex) work to decrease inflammation in the nasal cavity.
Immunotherapy involves controlled exposure to allergens to reduce the immune system’s reaction. Traditional allergy injections (subcutaneous immunotherapy or SCIT) and allergy drops (sublingual immunotherapy or SLIT) follow the same principle of retraining the immune system. At Sinus and Snoring Specialists, allergy drops are often preferred for convenience and comfort. This can be an effective way to address the allergy at its root.
Lifestyle modifications can also help, including using indoor air purifiers, wearing a mask outdoors during high-pollen days, and performing nasal saline rinses to clear pollen from the nasal passages.
Does cedar fever lead to other health problems?
In patients who have severe allergies or structural problems with the nose (like a deviated septum), a flare of allergy symptoms can cause significant swelling to the nasal cavity and cause a sinus infection by preventing the sinuses from draining effectively.
Inflammation in the nasal cavity can also worsen Eustachian tube dysfunction, leading to ear pressure, fullness, or temporary hearing changes.
Patients with a history of asthma may note worsening of their asthma symptoms during cedar season.
At Sinus and Snoring Specialists, we offer comprehensive solutions to manage cedar fever and its related complications.
Schedule a consultation today to get your allergies under control and breathe easier this cedar season.
📞/💬 Call / Securely Text (KLARA): 512-601-0303
🌐 Visit: www.sinussnoringent.com
Interested in Balloon Sinuplasty? Contact Us Today to Get Started
If chronic sinus pressure, congestion, recurrent infections, or difficulty breathing through your nose continue to interfere with daily life, a more thorough evaluation may help identify the underlying cause. At Sinus & Snoring Specialists, our team focuses on detailed anatomical assessment and minimally invasive treatment options designed to improve long-term sinus function and nasal airflow.
To learn whether balloon sinuplasty may be appropriate for your condition, contact our Austin office at (512) 601-0303 or request a consultation online.