The dry flakes of skin produced by the animals is known as dander. This dander contains certain proteins, which can become airborne and an trigger allergic reaction. Animal urine and saliva also contains the proteins which cause allergies. Dogs and cats are the most common pets which cause dander allergies. Other pets which cause allergies are hamsters, rodents, mice, guinea pigs etc.
Pet dander allergies are caused when the immune system perceives the protein present in the dander as harmful to the body and attacks them. Certain chemicals such as histamines are produced against the protein. This causes allergic reaction such as watery eyes, runny nose, eczema, hives, diarrhea, vomiting etc.
Pet Dander Allergy Symptoms
Pet allergies can cause symptoms such as runny nose, cough, itchy and water eyes, hives, eczema. These symptoms can progress to difficulty breathing difficulty, vomiting and diarrhea.
Managing Pet Dander Allergies, How to Get rid of Pet Dander Allergy?:
Here are a few tips to manage pet dander allergies:
- Use HEPA filters to clean and get rid of the animal dander
- Avoid your pet into the bedroom or limit the pet’s access to only few rooms of your home. You can also try keeping your pet outside
- Wash your hands after holding your pet to remove the dander
- Make your family member who does not have dander allergies, clean the pet regularly. This will reduce the dander production
- Avoid carpets, upholstered furniture as they can attract dander. Flooring such as tile, wooden or vinyl is recommended for those with pet allergies
If you are suffering from dander allergies, anti-histamines, corticosteroids and decongestants can help in reducing the symptoms.
If you find your pet dander allergies bothersome, you can try living without a pet. But, if that is not possible, avoiding pet dander allergens by lifestyle changes and cleaning your home can be helpful.
