Pet Allergies

Allergies are widespread and almost expected to have; they are the most common chronic condition in the world. Probably every one of us has at least one allergy. 

But what are allergies actually? They occur when our body confuses a harmless substance with an invader, and then overreacts. The reaction to an allergen can be mild to life-threatening, which is why we need to avoid contact with all potential allergens.

Pet Allergies

Pet allergies are an allergic reaction to proteins that are found in animal's skin cells, urine, and saliva. Most commonly, pet allergies are connected to cats or dogs because of the fur and the dead flakes of skin that pets shed. However, not only cats and dogs are the cause of allergic reactions.

Symptoms

There are a lot of different types of allergic reactions. Some of the symptoms include:

• Sneezing

• Runny nose

• Itchy, red, and watery eyes

• Itchy nose

• Nasal congestion

• Cough

• Swollen, blue-colored skin under the eyes

• Facial pressure or pain

• Frequent awakening

• Asthma

• Wheezing

• Chest tightening and pain

• Trouble sleeping because of the wheezing.

Skin Symptoms

Some people with pet allergies could also have a skin allergic reaction known as allergic dermatitis. Allergic dermatitis could occur with direct contact with an allergy-causing pet. The symptoms can be:

• Itchy skin

• Raised, red patches of skin

• Eczema.

Prevention and Treatment

The best way to prevent pet allergies is to keep the pets outside as much as possible (if possible) and to wash them regularly with special shampoos.

Also, there are lots of medications to treat allergies, such as tablets, liquids, or nasal sprays, depending on the reaction. There are some things that cause itchiness which are not related to allergies and other ways you should treat your dog for itch relief.

When to See a Doctor?

Symptoms such as the runny nose, sneezing, or itching can easily be mistaken with a regular cold. If those symptoms last for more than two weeks, it is probably an allergy. There are many ways to check what your body is allergic to, with blood tests being the most common method.

If the allergic reaction happens to be serious, such as difficulty with breathing or drinking and eating, go see a doctor as soon as possible.

Author: Mira Rakicevic