01/20/2026
Austin Allergy Season Tips: Surviving Cedar, Oak, and Ragweed Season
Living in Austin means living with allergies—let’s be honest. From the dreaded cedar fever in winter to oak and grass pollen in spring and ragweed in fall, our city keeps allergy sufferers on their toes.
Here are some simple, practical tips to make allergy season a little less miserable.
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Know Your Austin Allergy Calendar
Knowing what’s in the air and when helps you stay ahead:
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Mountain cedar 🌲
• Spring (Mar–May): Oak, ash, elm, grasses 🌿
• Summer (Jun–Aug): Grasses and molds
• Fall (Sep–Nov): Ragweed and molds 🍂
Cedar pollen is especially nasty and can hit even if you’ve never had allergies before.
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Start Meds Before Things Get Bad
Waiting until you’re stuffed up is too late. Try:
• Daily antihistamines before pollen hits
• Nasal sprays (steroids) used consistently—they take a few days to kick in
• Go for non-drowsy options so you can still function during the day
Being consistent beats popping a pill only when you can’t breathe.
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Rinse Your Nose
Nasal saline rinses are a simple, super-effective trick:
• Wash away pollen and mucus
• Help reduce congestion and post-nasal drip
• Safe to use daily
Use sterile or boiled water for the rinse.
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Keep Pollen Out of Your Home
Inside matters just as much as outside:
• Keep windows shut during high pollen days
• Shower and change clothes after being outside
• Wash bedding weekly
• HEPA air filters can help
Don’t forget, pets can bring pollen in too—wipe their paws and brush them regularly.
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Watch the Pollen Counts
Pollen changes daily in Austin depending on wind and rain:
• Plan outside time when counts are low (usually after rain)
• Avoid mornings when pollen peaks
• Sunglasses and hats can help keep pollen off your face
A little timing goes a long way.
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When to See an ENT or Allergy Specialist
If OTC meds aren’t cutting it, it’s worth seeing a pro, especially if you have:
• Chronic congestion
• Repeated sinus infections
• Serious cedar fever
• Trouble sleeping from nasal issues
An ENT can figure out whether allergies, sinus problems, or something else is causing your symptoms.
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Think About Allergy Testing and Shots
For some people, long-term relief needs more than pills:
• Allergy tests pinpoint exactly what triggers you
• Immunotherapy (shots or drops) can reduce sensitivity over time
• Works especially well for cedar, oak, and grass allergies
Treating the cause beats just treating the symptoms.
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Breathe Easier in Austin
Austin is amazing—but allergies are part of the deal. With the right tips and treatment plan, you don’t have to suffer every season.
If allergies are ruining your day, consider seeing an ENT. You can finally enjoy Central Texas without constantly reaching for tissues!
