Austin Mold: Is Cedar Pollen Breeding Lung Spores?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 9, 2026

The air hangs heavy, thick with humidity, and something else… a scratchiness in your throat, a persistent cough, maybe even a low-grade headache. Is it just the typical Austin weather, or is something more sinister lurking in the air? For many Austinites, the culprit is often one of two things: cedar pollen or mold. Figuring out which one is attacking your sinuses is the first step to finding relief.

Cedar fever and mold allergies share similar symptoms, making self-diagnosis tricky. But fear not, fellow Austinites! This guide will arm you with the knowledge to differentiate between these two common allergens, test for them effectively, and implement targeted strategies to breathe easier in our beloved, albeit allergy-prone, city.

First, let’s break down the key differences in symptoms. Cedar fever, triggered by the Ashe juniper tree (often mistakenly called cedar), typically hits hard between December and March. Think of it as a winter allergy onslaught. The symptoms are often intense:

Profuse watery nasal discharge.
Itchy, watery eyes.
Sneezing fits that feel never-ending.
Sore throat due to postnasal drip.
Fatigue and a general feeling of malaise.
Crucially, cedar fever rarely causes a fever. Despite the name, a true fever is uncommon.

Mold allergies, on the other hand, can be a year-round problem in Austin’s humid climate. Mold thrives in damp environments, both indoors and outdoors. Symptoms can be similar to cedar fever, but with some key distinctions:

Nasal congestion is often more prominent than a runny nose.
Dry, hacking cough.
Wheezing or shortness of breath, especially in individuals with asthma.
Skin rashes or hives.
Headaches, often described as a dull ache.
Mold allergies are more likely to trigger asthma symptoms.

Now, let’s get practical. You’re experiencing some of these symptoms. What’s your next move? Don’t just guess! Here’s a step-by-step approach to identifying the culprit:

Step 1: Symptom Tracking and Timing. Keep a detailed log of your symptoms. Note when they started, how severe they are, and what seems to trigger them. Are they worse on windy days (likely cedar) or after a rain (likely mold)? Do they improve when you leave your house (potentially mold inside)? This information is invaluable for both self-diagnosis and when consulting with a doctor.

Step 2: Visual Inspection of Your Home. This is where you become a mold detective. Grab a flashlight and carefully inspect these common problem areas in Austin homes:

Bathrooms: Check for mold around showers, tubs, toilets, and sinks. Look for discoloration, staining, or a musty odor. Pay close attention to grout and caulk.
Kitchen: Inspect under the sink, around the dishwasher, and behind the refrigerator. Leaks are a mold magnet.
Attic: Look for water stains on the ceiling or walls. Check for proper ventilation. A hot, humid attic is a breeding ground for mold.
Basement/Crawl Space: These areas are notoriously damp. Look for mold on walls, floors, and any stored items.
Windows and Doors: Check for condensation and mold growth around window frames and door frames.
Air Conditioning System: A dirty AC unit can circulate mold spores throughout your home. Inspect the coils and drain pan.

Pro Tip: Don’t just look for black mold. Mold comes in various colors, including white, green, brown, and even pink. Any unusual discoloration or musty odor should be investigated.

Step 3: DIY Air Quality Testing (Optional). While professional mold testing is the most accurate, DIY kits can provide a preliminary assessment. You can purchase these kits at most hardware stores in Austin, like Home Depot or Lowe’s. Follow the instructions carefully. Typically, you’ll expose a petri dish to the air for a set period, then seal it and wait for mold colonies to grow. Compare the growth to the provided chart to get an idea of the mold levels in your home.

Important Note: DIY kits are not foolproof. They can give you a general idea, but they are not a substitute for professional testing, especially if you suspect a serious mold problem.

Step 4: Allergy Testing with a Doctor. The most accurate way to determine if you’re allergic to cedar pollen or mold is to get tested by an allergist. They can perform skin prick tests or blood tests to identify specific allergens. This information is crucial for developing a targeted treatment plan. Several excellent allergists serve the Austin area, including Austin Allergy & Asthma and Allergy & Asthma Center of Austin.

Step 5: Targeted Prevention and Treatment Strategies. Once you’ve identified your triggers, it’s time to take action.

For Cedar Fever:

Monitor Pollen Counts: Stay informed about daily cedar pollen levels. Several websites and apps provide this information for the Austin area.
Stay Indoors During Peak Pollen Times: Cedar pollen counts are typically highest in the morning.
Use HEPA Air Purifiers: Place HEPA air purifiers in your bedroom and living room to filter out pollen.
Nasal Irrigation: Rinse your nasal passages with saline solution to remove pollen and relieve congestion. A Neti pot or squeeze bottle works well.
Antihistamines and Decongestants: Over-the-counter medications can help relieve symptoms. Consult with your doctor about prescription options.
Consider Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy): If your cedar fever is severe, allergy shots can help desensitize you to the pollen.

For Mold Allergies:

Control Humidity: Keep indoor humidity levels below 50% using a dehumidifier. This is especially important in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
Fix Leaks Promptly: Repair any leaks in your roof, plumbing, or windows to prevent mold growth.
Improve Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens by using exhaust fans.
Clean Regularly: Regularly clean bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas prone to mold growth. Use a mold-killing cleaner.
Remove Moldy Materials: If you find mold growth, remove it immediately. For small areas, you can use a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). For larger areas, consider hiring a professional mold remediation company. Several reputable companies serve the Austin area.
Consider Professional Mold Remediation: If you have a significant mold problem, it’s best to hire a professional mold remediation company. They have the expertise and equipment to safely and effectively remove mold.
Replace Carpeting: Carpeting can trap moisture and mold spores. Consider replacing carpeting with hard flooring, especially in bathrooms and basements.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

Ignoring the Problem: Mold problems don’t go away on their own. In fact, they tend to get worse over time.
Using the Wrong Cleaning Products: Regular cleaning products won’t kill mold. You need to use a mold-killing cleaner.
Painting Over Mold: Painting over mold only hides the problem. The mold will continue to grow underneath the paint.
DIY Mold Remediation for Large Areas: Attempting to remove large areas of mold yourself can be dangerous. You can expose yourself to high levels of mold spores.
Not Addressing the Source of the Moisture: If you don’t fix the underlying moisture problem, the mold will keep coming back.

Living in Austin means embracing the outdoors, but it also means being prepared for allergy season. By understanding the differences between cedar fever and mold allergies, taking proactive steps to identify your triggers, and implementing targeted prevention and treatment strategies, you can breathe easier and enjoy all that our city has to offer. Don’t let allergies hold you back from exploring Zilker Park, enjoying live music on South Congress, or simply relaxing in your own home. Take control of your health and conquer those Austin allergies!