The symptoms of cedar allergies can come on hard and heavy, just like the bursts of allergens that cedar trees emit during pollination. True cedars and natives in the cypress and juniper families can generate severe allergy symptoms in some people, including violent sneezing, severe congestion and relentless runny noses. Prescription and over-the-counter allergy medicines preserve respiratory health during cedar season. Cedar allergy patients, such as those who inhabit the mountain cedar habitat of Texas and nearby states, should prepare themselves before symptoms begin.
Antihistamines
Two classes of antihistamines provide reliable relief from allergy symptoms of itchy eyes, nose and throat and breathing problems caused by excess mucus drainage. Over-the-counter diphenhydramine and clemastine work effectively but may cause drowsiness. Nonprescription loratadine and many prescription antihistamines perform well without sedating properties. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, or AAAAI, reports that children over 2 with cedar allergies can safely take these medications as directed.
Decongestants
Decongestant nasal sprays may be taken for cedar allergies for a short period of no more than three consecutive days. This type of allergy medicine works by calming nasal inflammation to allow mucus to drain, the Mayo Clinic explains. Nonprescription decongestant sprays such as oxymetazoline may be taken by patients age 6 and up. Patients may also purchase antihistamine tablets with decongestant elements, but people with high blood pressure should not take them, notes the Mayo Clinic.
Cromolyn Sodium
Patients who seek an alternative over-the-counter allergy medicine without side effects may get effective results from cromolyn sodium. The AAAAI reports that children ages 2 and up can avoid symptoms of cedar allergies by using cromolyn sodium three or four times daily. This medication must be taken a few days or weeks before cedar season begins in order to prevent allergy symptoms, notes the AAAAI.
Corticosteroids
Nasal corticosteroids require a prescription but may deliver the greatest symptom relief with the fewest side effects. Mometasone furoate, approved for children 3 and up, and flunisolide, for patients ages 6 and up, represent the newer generation of inhaled corticosteroids. The older oral allergy medication, prednisone, may cause high blood sugar and weight gain and is prescribed less frequently, the Mayo Clinic reports.
Desensitization Shots
Patients who tire of seasonal cedar allergy symptoms or who don't wish to take allergy medicines can try immunotherapy. A series of these desensitization shots suppresses or neutralizes patients' immune system responses to cedar pollen. According to the Allergy and Asthma Center of Austin, Texas, immunotherapy reduces local residents' reactions to prevent illness during the winter and spring tree pollen seasons.
