Get Ready for Cedar Fever and Other Winter Allergies in Oklahoma

People who have lived in Oklahoma their whole lives are all too familiar with allergies. We know that spring and fall are the seasons most associated with runny noses, itchy/watery eyes and sore throats thanks to allergies. But some Oklahomans also suffer with allergies in the winter, and the worse off are those who experience cedar fever.

Cedar fever is caused by pollen released from mountain cedar trees. Those who are sensitive to cedar pollen could develop cedar fever during the winter months. Symptoms of cedar fever include nasal congestion, itchiness, sneezing and often times a warmer body temperature.

Since cedar fever occurs in the winter, its symptoms can also be the same as a common cold or the flu. So during the winter months, it's important that people rule out a cold or the flu before assuming it's "just allergies."

@rubin_allergy Cedar fever season has started a few weeks early…#texas #allergies #pollen #tiktokdoc ♬ original sound - Dr. Rubin, MD

Cedar fever is not the only winter allergy that affects Oklahomans.

Cedar fever may be the main culprit for allergies in the winter in Oklahoma, but there a few other indoor allergens that could make people sick. According to the Oklahoma Allergy and Asthma Clinic, other indoor allergens in Oklahoma include pet dander, dust mites, cockroach droppings and mold.

@rubin_allergy @ESPN What are winter allergies? What can you be allergic to during the winter? #winter #allergies #tiktokdoc #learnontiktok ♬ original sound - Dr. Rubin, MD

How to protect yourself from winter allergies.

Below are a few ways the Oklahoma Allergy and Asthma Clinic suggests people protect themselves this winter from allergies:

• Keep your windows closed
• Replace air filters
• Clean up any areas that could harbor mold, dust or cockroaches
• Vacuum, dust and clean your home regularly
• Replace carpeting with wood or other smooth flooring