Here we go again, it’s “Cedar Fever” season! Along with this season comes the sniffles, itchy and watery eyes, and crankiness. If your child suffers from a cedar allergy, here are a few things you can do to help them:
Be Proactive!
- Cedar generally becomes worse this time of year, from December through February. If your child has a cedar allergy, consult their pediatrician before “cedar fever” hits and get them started on allergy medication.
Outside Time:
- It seems strange to advise a parent not to send their kids outside, but if your child is especially affected by cedar or any other outdoor allergies, keep them inside. There are many weather apps where you can check the pollen count and see if today is a good or bad day for your kiddo’s allergies.
Bathe:
- Have them change clothes when they get home from school and wash their face and hands often. Have them take a bath before getting into bed and wash their sheets often. The goal is to get the cedar away from your child as much as you can.
Air Conditioning
- Keep your windows closed and run the AC when the pollen count is especially high. Be sure to change your AC filter often.
Cleaning
- Instead of dusting, clean your house with a wet rag. This gets the pollen out of your house instead of up into the air. Bathe your pets regularly.
OTC Remedies
- We always recommend having your child be evaluated for allergies. But there are many over-the-counter antihistamines that can help alleviate symptoms.
This year, your child could have cedar fever or COVID-19. Here are a few tips on how to tell:
Your tissue could give you an idea of what your child could have. Generally, allergies bring mucus that is often clear and runny. More serious infections can cause mucus to be thick and discolored.
Cedar Fever Symptoms:
- Sore throat
- Watery eyes
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Runny nose
- Partial loss of smell
COVID-19 Symptoms:
- Chills or fever
- Cough
- Nausea or Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Sore throat
- Possible loss of taste and smell
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
If you are unsure if your child has allergies or COVID-19, bring them to Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care! With COVID-19 testing available, our pediatric providers can evaluate your child’s symptoms and come up with a treatment plan. With multiple locations in Texas, we are open 7 days a week and see up to the age of 21 years old.
Article By: Alicia Tezel, MD, FAAP
