Pets

Pet Dander Allergies – Symptoms and Treatment

There are pets in homes all over the world. Ever since ancient times the human race has kept pets of all shapes and sizes and since that time there have been those allergic to the dander that comes off the coats of most animals.

Pet dander is easily one of the most common allergies in the world today. However, pet dander allergy is considered more of a nuisance allergy than a real threat to humans.

Symptoms of Pet Dander Allergies

Each person that suffers from a pet dander allergy displays a unique set of symptoms. While it is incredibly rare, there are cases where these symptoms can be life threatening.

In most cases a pet dander allergy reaction starts with itchy, red and watery eyes. This is very similar to what a sufferer of hay fever will experience during the high pollen time of the year.

Hives are also possible. A breakout of red spots all over the body is common in most pet dander allergy sufferers. Whether or not this symptom occurs is usually dependent upon how long the exposure lasts.

In rare cases repository symptoms can occur. This symptom is generally reserved for those that have a severe allergy to pet dander. In most cases this symptom requires the victim to seek immediate medical attention.

Causes of Pet Dander Allergies

Like most allergies in the world the exact cause of pet dander allergies is not known. There are some correlations that the medical community has noted in treating pet dander allergy sufferers.

First, they have noted that many lifelong pet owners, especially those with long haired pets, are more likely to develop pet dander allergies. This is due to the prolonged exposure to the allergen.

Also those that work with animals on a daily basis are likely to develop this allergy. This includes those that work in rescue shelters and in vet offices.
Finally there are those that have weakened immune systems can develop this allergy. A weak immune system allows diseases and infections to run unchecked through the system. Pet dander can irritate already fragile areas of the internal body bringing about the allergy.

Treatments and Cures for Pet Dander Allergies

There is no actual cure for pet dander allergies but they can be controlled. The most extreme of the treatments for pet dander allergies would be to remove all pets from the home. For many this is not an option they are willing to accept.

For those with a severe pet dander allergy there are a series of shots that can be administered by a doctor. It is important to note that this is not a cure. This means a lifetime of shots to suppress the symptoms of a pet dander allergy.

In those with a less severe case there are several pills that can be used to control the allergy. One single pill will not help the patient so a series of pills in varying combination’s will be administered to ensure that further occurrences are suppressed.