People who suffer from pet allergies will experience symptoms that are consistent with inflammation of the nasal passages. This includes a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and shortness of breath. Physical contact with pet dander can cause contact dermatitis, skin rash, hives, or even asthma. Pet allergy is an allergic reaction to proteins found in an animal's skin cells, saliva, or urine.
The most common signs of pet allergy are similar to those of hay fever, such as sneezing and a runny nose. Some people may also have signs of asthma, such as wheezing and difficulty breathing. If you think you may have a pet allergy, the best strategy is to avoid or reduce exposure to the animal as much as possible. Medications or other treatments may be needed to relieve symptoms and control asthma.
It can be difficult to tell if you have a cold or an allergy. If your symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it is likely that you have an allergy. If your signs and symptoms are severe, you feel like your nasal passages are completely blocked, and you're having trouble sleeping or wheezing, it is important to call your doctor. If you experience worsening wheezing or shortness of breath quickly, or if you are short of breath and do minimal activity, seek emergency care immediately.
People with asthma and pet allergies often have difficulty controlling asthma symptoms and may be at risk of asthma attacks that require immediate medical treatment or emergency care. Any animal with fur can be a source of pet allergy, but pet allergies are often associated with cats and dogs. To reduce exposure to pet allergens, wash sofa covers, pillows, curtains, and pet beds frequently and keep them away from carpets and furniture. Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance, such as pollen, mold, or pet dander.
Pet dander consists of microscopic patches of skin shed by cats, dogs, rodents, birds, and other animals with fur or feathers. Pet allergens can be found in homes, classrooms, workplaces, and other places where pets have never been. Because of how light and small pet dander is, it can remain suspended in the air for a long period of time and can easily adhere to furniture, bedding, fabrics, and many other household items. If you don't have a pet but are thinking about adopting or buying one, make sure you don't have pet allergies before you get engaged.
People who have asthma and a pet dander allergy may also experience breathing problems, chest pain or tightness, and wheezing. It is important to remember that animal dander can be found even in homes and buildings without pets because of how quickly allergens spread. To reduce exposure to pet allergens in your home or workplace it is important to keep pets out of the bedroom and vacuum regularly.