TULSA - Coughing, sneezing and headaches are symptoms usually associated with the flu.
However, those symptoms and more, including congestion and itchy, watery eyes, have also been reported by people suffering from a condition known as cedar fever.
Cedar fever is an allergen caused by pollen from cedar trees.
Common in central Texas, which is covered with cedar trees, many Oklahomans have also been affected, as the number of cedar trees sprouting up in the Sooner state increases rapidly each year.
According to Dr. Rumali Medagoda with the Allergy Clinic of Tulsa, cedar fever season begins in December and can run through March, when cedar trees are blooming.
Medagoda said cedar fever is sometimes accompanied by a fever, like the flu. However, Medagoda said the fever is usually low-grade.
According to the doctor, cedar fever can be prevented by closing windows, doors and limiting outside exposure.
If diagnosed, cedar fever can be treated with over the counter allergy medications, said Medagoda.
An allergen injection is also an option, according to Medagoda.
Medagoda said because the symptoms of cedar fever are similar to the flu, people should see their doctor to determine diagnosis.