Pet Allergies: Symptoms, Treatments and Causes

What Are the Symptoms of Pet Allergies?

Recognizing the symptoms of pet allergies is important for managing and treating this condition effectively.

Individuals with pet allergies may experience a range of symptoms that can vary in severity and duration, often resembling those of common colds or other respiratory ailments, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, these symptoms are triggered by exposure to pet allergens rather than viruses. Understanding these signs is the first step toward finding relief and maintaining a comfortable environment for both the pet and the allergic individual. Below are common symptoms associated with pet allergies, according to the Cleveland Clinic:

• Sneezing

• Runny nose

• Itchy, red, or watery eyes

• Nasal congestion

• Itchy nose, roof of mouth, or throat

• Postnasal drip

• Cough

• Facial pressure and pain

• Frequent awakening

• Swollen, blue-colored skin under your eyes

• In children, frequent upward rubbing of the nose

What Causes Pet Allergies?

Pet allergies are triggered by an immune system response to proteins found in an animal's dander, saliva, and urine, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Understanding what causes these allergies is important for knowing how to manage symptoms and reducing exposure. While it's commonly thought that pet hair is the culprit, it's actually the proteins secreted by the animal and the microscopic flakes of skin, or dander, that lead to allergic reactions, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

The proteins that cause pet allergies can cling to the fur of animals, which becomes a problem when it's shed and the dander becomes airborne or settles on surfaces around the home, they note. Cats and dogs are the most common pets that cause allergies, but other animals such as birds, rodents, and horses can also produce allergens that trigger symptoms. Cats often pose a higher risk for allergic reactions, largely due to a protein called Fel d 1, which is present in their saliva and dander, according to the Cleveland Clinic. They note that when cats groom themselves, they spread this protein across their fur, which can then be easily transferred to clothing, furniture, and air.

Dog allergies are common because dogs produce multiple allergens, mainly found in their saliva, dander, and urine, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Each breed may produce different amounts of dander, and while some breeds are marketed as "hypoallergenic," no breed is truly allergy-free, according to the Cleveland Clinic. It's worth noting that individual reactions to different breeds can vary.

Other animals like birds can shed allergens through their droppings and feathers, while small mammals, such as guinea pigs or hamsters, produce allergens in their dander and urine, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Individuals with pet allergies should identify their specific triggers and consider these factors when choosing a pet or managing allergy symptoms. You can also undergo allergy testing if you want to find out if you are allergic to pet dander or other animals.

How to Treat Pet Allergies?

Dealing with pet allergies can be challenging, but there are several treatment options available that can help alleviate symptoms and make it easier to live with pets, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

From over-the-counter medications to long-term strategies like immunotherapy, individuals have a variety of choices when it comes to managing their pet allergies. The goal of treatment is always to reduce the allergic reaction or relieve the symptoms that can cause discomfort and interfere with daily activities. According to the Cleveland Clinic, some of the most common treatments that can provide relief to those suffering from pet-related allergic reactions include:

• Antihistamines: These medications can help relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose by blocking the action of histamine, the substance in the body that causes allergic reactions.

• Corticosteroids: Available in various forms such as nasal sprays, inhalers, topical creams, or oral medications, corticosteroids can reduce inflammation associated with allergic reactions.

• Decongestants: These can help shrink swollen tissues in the nasal passages and resolve mucus, making it easier to breathe. They are often used for short-term relief of nasal congestion.

• Leukotriene modifiers: These oral medications can help control allergic reactions by blocking leukotrienes, chemicals in the immune system that react to allergens.

• Immunotherapy: This is a long-term treatment that involves regular injections of purified allergen extracts, which can gradually decrease a person's sensitivity to allergens.

• Nasal irrigation: Using a saline solution to rinse the nasal passages can help relieve symptoms of nasal congestion and remove allergens from the nose.

When Should You Visit Your Doctor?

While many individuals manage pet allergies with over-the-counter treatments or lifestyle adjustments, there are circumstances when it's essential to seek professional medical advice. Knowing when to visit your doctor for pet allergies is important not only to improve your quality of life but also to prevent your symptoms from worsening. You should consider seeing a doctor or allergist for your pet allergies if you find that your symptoms are persistent, severe, or interfering with your daily activities, including sleep and work, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Additionally, if over-the-counter medications like antihistamines are not providing relief, or if you're experiencing side effects from these medications, a healthcare provider can suggest alternative treatments or prescribe stronger medications, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Additionally, they note that if you have other health conditions, such as asthma, that can be exacerbated by pet allergies, professional medical advice is crucial to ensure your overall health is not compromised.

Urgent care near me

A primary care physician or allergist can help you with long-term allergy management, however, you can visit an urgent care clinic if you have severe symptoms or need fast relief when over-the-counter medications aren’t working.