home Audience 6 Allergy to animal fur, causes, symptoms, treatment. Allergy to animal fur: symptoms and treatment methods. Allergy to cats: symptoms in adults Allergy to wool has appeared

Allergy to animal fur, causes, symptoms, treatment. Allergy to animal fur: symptoms and treatment methods. Allergy to cats: symptoms in adults Allergy to wool has appeared

Allergy to wool symptoms

There are a huge number of reasons for the occurrence of allergies: medications, pollen, household dust, fungal spores, animal fur, etc. Allergy to animal fur occupies a leading position in the epidemiological structure of this disease.

Why do allergies to wool occur?

According to statistics, 15% of the entire population of planet Earth suffers from a disease such as allergies to the fur of domestic and wild animals. However, this fact does not stop people, and they continue to come into contact with animals at home, visiting, at the zoo, etc.

The onset of an allergic reaction often develops over a period of about two years, but sometimes wool allergies occur in sudden attacks.

Most often, the disease appears from contact with animals such as dogs and cats, even if they have almost no hair. Dogs whose coat is constantly renewed are also “walking” allergens.

Allergies to wool appear mainly due to the secretion of specific animal proteins by certain skin glands. Proteins are also often found in the urine, fur, and saliva of animals. These allergens are extremely small, so they are easily picked up in the air and transported over long distances. The saliva and urine of living creatures, containing the dander of their “owners,” dries, and particles of skin float in the air and can be swallowed by anyone. This suggests that close contact with an animal is not necessary for allergies to occur. A person who has an allergen in his body becomes a carrier of the disease when, during coughing or sneezing, particles of animal fur or skin are released from the body along with his saliva.

How does a wool allergy manifest?

Allergy to wool has its own symptoms. These include nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and temporary asthmatic attack. This type of allergy can torment a person for anywhere from several hours to several months. The patient must be under the vigilant supervision of a doctor all this time.

A wool allergy exhibits the following symptoms:

Tearfulness, swelling of the eyelids, conjunctivitis of allergic etiology;
Severe itching, hyperemia of the skin;
Rashes in the form of small rashes;
Atopic dermatitis;
Neurodermatitis, eczema;
Hives (extensive blistering rashes);
Rhinitis of allergic etiology, constant watery nasal discharge, sneezing;
Attacks of dry cough without signs of a cold;
Shortness of breath up to attacks of suffocation and the development of bronchial asthma.

Since fur allergies are mainly caused by pets - cats and dogs, these two subtypes of allergies should be considered separately.

Allergy to cat hair

Cat fur itself is not an allergen; allergic reactions are caused by a secretory protein from the cat's skin and saliva. The allergens are called Felis domesticus allergen 1 or Fel d 1, found in the sebaceous glands, and Fel d 4, secreted by saliva. These allergens are part of the secretions of the entire “cat” group - from pets to lions, tigers, leopards and panthers. Felines constantly monitor the cleanliness of their fur and lick themselves almost hourly. Wherever a cat sits, lies, or walks, allergens remain. Since Felis domesticus is constantly found in the smallest scales of the animal's skin, it ends up in huge quantities on carpets, bedding, and soft toys. It should be noted that cats emit significantly more allergens than cats. In addition, the cat family is a carrier not only of Felis domesticus allergen, but also of other types of allergens excreted in the urine. In a word, where a cat lives, allergens are literally in the air, and the abundance of furniture, upholstered fabric, carpets and household dust contribute to their spread.

An allergy to cat fur manifests itself with typical symptoms characteristic of allergic reactions. However, there is a peculiarity in the signs of an allergy to cat fur - the first to appear is itching and nasal congestion, which are often confused with manifestations of a cold.

Typical signs of a cat allergy:

Swelling of the face;
Itching all over the body;
Hyperemia of the skin, itching;
Severe tearing;
Difficulty breathing due to nasopharynx congestion;
Constant sneezing, itchy nose;
Hoarseness of voice, sore throat;
Cough – frequent and dry;
Urticaria up to Quincke's edema;
Provoking an asthmatic attack.

It is a myth that there are hypoallergenic cats, and that the so-called “hairless” Sphynx cats are not capable of causing allergies at all. This is far from true, since both Fel d 1 and Fel d 4 are aggressive allergens that remain on the skin and in the saliva of animals. Not a single nursery in the world is capable of breeding a skinless and tongueless breed. The selection of Felis domesticus is a genetically determined property of all representatives of the cat family. Moreover, even if the cat is removed from the area where the allergic person lives, the manifestations and symptoms of an allergic reaction may remain for several months. This is explained by the fact that allergens hold tightly to particles of furniture fabric and hide in carpets, bedspreads and curtains.

Allergy to dog fur

Dogs are in second place after the cat family in provoking allergic reactions. Just like cat breeds, there are no hypoallergenic dog breeds. Moreover, short-haired dogs are even more aggressive in terms of allergies than long-haired ones, since the main allergen Can F1 is contained in the dog’s skin. In addition, allergies can be caused by tiny mites that constantly live in dog fur. Actually, dog fur is just a carrier of a huge number of allergens - Can F1. Even with systematic, thorough cleaning of the room, allergens can hide in upholstered furniture, carpets, curtains, toys and remain viable for up to several months.

Typical dog allergy symptoms:

Dry cough, hoarseness of voice;
Redness of the eyes, tearing;
Continuous sneezing (5 to 10 times in a row);
Difficulty breathing due to nasopharyngeal congestion;
Skin itching is less common than with cat allergies.

Skin manifestations of allergies to dog hair mainly occur when saliva comes into contact with human skin. It is known that dogs are usually affectionate and strive to “kiss” their owner. Any place in the human body where saliva enters becomes a collection of allergens. People with asthma react especially violently to dog allergens. They may rapidly develop suffocation and Quincke's edema.

How is wool allergy treated?

If the allergy to wool is mild and is not accompanied by severe symptoms, then antihistamines and nasal sprays can easily cope with it. If the form of the disease is severe, then specialist intervention and corticosteroid medications are required. The condition of the body with allergies, accompanied by asthmatic attacks, can be alleviated with the help of anti-asthmatic drugs.

You can reduce the frequency of allergic attacks to animal fur by strengthening the body's immune system. In this situation, the patient needs to undergo a course of hyposensitization - a procedure that helps reduce the body's hypersensitivity to allergens released by animals.

In this case, an allergy to wool is treated as follows: the allergen is injected under the patient's skin in small portions. The body immediately begins to produce antibodies aimed at fighting the “stranger.” The next time there is contact with animal secretions again and an allergic reaction begins to develop, the person will tolerate the disease much easier. Depending on how severe the disease is at the moment, hyposensitization may continue for several months. After some time, the amount administered can be reduced to one dose per month.

Allergies to animal fur can be minimized. To do this, you must follow some rules:

do not have a pet;
wash your pet every day;
Wash places where he frequently stays with bleach;
Do wet cleaning in the apartment every day;
knock out rugs and mattresses on which the pet walks several times a week;
Clean the animal's bedding at least once a week.

These measures will help to avoid such an unpleasant ailment as an allergy to animal fur.

Medical Expert Editor

Portnov Alexey Alexandrovich

Education: Kyiv National Medical University named after. A.A. Bogomolets, specialty - "General Medicine"

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Allergy to wool symptoms

Severe allergies to animal fur have become almost epidemic these days.

Every fifteenth out of a thousand newborn babies grows up to be 100% allergic, for whom communication with pets is strictly contraindicated.

Clinical picture

What doctors say about antihistamines

Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor Emelyanov G.V. Medical practice: more than 30 years.
Practical medical experience: more than 30 years

According to the latest WHO data, it is allergic reactions in the human body that lead to the occurrence of most fatal diseases. And it all starts with the fact that a person has an itchy nose, sneezing, runny nose, red spots on the skin, and in some cases, suffocation.

7 million people die every year due to allergies, and the scale of the damage is such that the allergic enzyme is present in almost every person.

Unfortunately, in Russia and the CIS countries, pharmaceutical corporations sell expensive medications that only relieve symptoms, thereby hooking people on one drug or another. This is why in these countries there is such a high percentage of diseases and so many people suffer from “non-working” drugs.

What causes it to appear

The reasons for the reaction still amaze doctors. Any substance, including distilled water, can provoke an inadequate immune response in the body.

An allergen is perceived as a foreign entity that needs to be gotten rid of urgently.

The immune system is guarded by five special substances secreted by cells to protect against bacteria, viruses and foreign protein antigens:

immunoglobulin Q;
immunoglobulin M;
immunoglobulin E;
immunoglobulin A;
immunoglobulin D.

The “culprit” of an unreasonably strong reaction is immunoglobulin E. If it perceives some external stimulus as a danger to the body, a reaction will occur.

Immunoglobulin will provoke the release of histamine, a substance that should destroy the foreign cell, activating the body’s protective reserves.

The biological function of typical manifestations of allergies - swelling, rashes, watery eyes, runny nose - is precisely this: to dilate blood vessels, cleanse the body.

Scientists call the main reasons for the reaction:

environmental degradation;
changing of the climate;
uncontrolled (without a doctor's prescription) use of antibiotics;
consequences of past diseases.

Animal fur is a very strong allergen. Most often, the reason is obvious: contact with an animal. But a reaction often develops when using items made from wool.

Features of different animals

The reaction is caused not by the wool itself, but by specific proteins contained in:

An allergy sufferer does not have to touch an animal for an attack to occur. He just needs to go into the room where the cat or dog lives.

The fact is that the smallest allergen proteins can be carried by air currents over quite long distances.

Dried particles of biological fluids and dead animal skin cells can be found on household items and dishes.

Fabric surfaces absorb them perfectly: sofas, pillows, upholstery, curtains.

Moreover, allergens can enter the body of another person and “travel” with him, being released when he sneezes or coughs.

In this case, it is hardly possible to understand why the interlocutor suddenly has a runny nose or swollen eyes.

Dog fur is one of the most serious allergens. In terms of the strength of the reactions it evokes, it is only slightly inferior to cat fur.

Short-haired breeds do not solve the problem. It's not so much the wool itself, but the skin secretions it contains.

Dogs are the source of two of the strongest allergens: Can f 1 and Can f 2.

They are produced not only by wool, but also by animal skin.

Carrying out diagnostics, scientists identify sensitivity to albumin (blood protein), dandruff and skin epithelium.

However, an allergy to dog fur can occur for another reason.

Microscopic mites living on the surface of an animal's skin can also provoke allergic reactions.

Cat fur is the strongest known allergen.

A cat leaves traces of its presence on literally every centimeter of living space.

Moreover, hairs on clothing can travel far outward, causing sudden and unexplained cat hair allergy symptoms.

To date, twelve allergens have been identified that are directly related to cats.

Allergens from cat hair are different from dog hair:

Fel d 1 (secreted by the sebaceous glands, present in urine);
Fel d 4 (secreted by the salivary glands).

All representatives of the cat family emit the following allergenic substances:

Exotic camel hair can also harm human health.

The reaction does not appear at all from close acquaintance with animals, which are very rare for Russian latitudes.

We often use household items, clothing or accessories made from camel hair.

Blankets, thongs, carpets, slippers can cause severe allergic symptoms.

Their debut is provoked by two types of allergens:

specific proteins secreted by the animal’s body and preserved on the fur;
wool itself, the structure of which can cause irritation to the skin and mucous membranes.

The manifestation of the disease should not be ignored. Once you are convinced that it is your favorite blanket or new carpet that is causing your allergy, you need to get rid of them immediately.

Allergies to sheep wool are quite rare.

However, animal fluids (saliva, urine) and exfoliated skin particles are the strongest allergens.

It is not necessary to touch the animal: the allergen can remain on a product made from natural sheep wool.

Sheep wool is used to make felted shoes, outerwear, home clothing, and other household items. If it was poorly cleaned, allergies will definitely manifest themselves.

Video: Reaction to cold

Related factors

A tendency to allergies and the presence of close relatives with allergies does not always mean that the disease will manifest itself. But there are accompanying factors that can trigger the onset of the disease.

Allergists include among the associated factors:

past illnesses, especially in the case of taking strong antibiotics;
aggressive chemical and biological substances that are constantly present in the living environment;
environmentally unfavorable situation in the region of residence;
harmful, contaminated food saturated with dangerous chemicals.

You should not be wary of expecting your baby to inherit an allergy to cats, dogs and other animals from his mother or father.

This may not happen. However, it is still worth taking care to reduce the likelihood of the onset of the disease.

Is there cross-reaction?

The concept of cross-allergy was introduced into professional terminology not so long ago.

The bottom line is that sometimes immune system cells perceive a certain foreign protein in exactly the same way as the main allergen and respond with similar symptoms.

Examples of cross allergies:

dog's fur: pork, beef;
cat hair: hair of dogs, horses, wool carpets, wool products;
sheep's wool: products made of tanned leather, mohair.

A similar set of amino acids provokes the manifestation of the main type of allergy.

The emergence of a scientifically proven theory of cross-allergy has made it possible not only to stop attacks of the disease, but also to achieve long-term remissions.

How does a wool allergy manifest?

Allergies to wool can have symptoms ranging from moderate to severe. This depends on individual predisposition and the degree of sensitization, that is, increasing the body’s sensitivity to allergens.

The gradual intensification of attacks can continue for quite a long time: from several days to several months.

Monitoring by an allergist during this period is mandatory, especially if there is a significant history of Quincke's edema.

Common symptoms of an allergy to animal dander are:

swelling of the eyelids and nasopharynx;
tearfulness;
allergic conjunctivitis;
allergic rhinitis;
severe skin itching of the entire surface of the body;
manifestations of atopic dermatitis;
eczema;
neurodermatitis;
severe dry cough;
dyspnea;
suffocation.

Allergies to cats and dogs manifest themselves in different ways. Thus, cat hair primarily provokes nasopharyngeal problems.

It can easily be confused with signs of an incipient cold. On the other hand, dog saliva acts much faster.

If the dog showed friendliness and licked an allergic person, the danger of instant development of Quincke's edema is very high.

Diagnostics

Modern allergology has a fairly extensive list of possible diagnostic measures:

skin tests;
tests of mucous membranes, including the area under the tongue;
laboratory blood test;
Voll's bioresonance method.

Each of these methods has its own characteristics.

Taking blood for serum testing is considered the safest, especially when it comes to young children.

Skin tests can cause a very strong allergic reaction and lead to serious consequences, including hospitalization.

Skin tests

Skin testing is a traditional method of identifying allergens, still used in Russia. The idea is to apply provoking solutions to the skin and observe the skin reaction.

There are three main types of skin tests:

scarification research;
Prick-test (injection method);
intradermal tests.

A scratch test allows you to test up to ten allergen substances at a time. Solutions with allergens are applied to the forearm, and skin scratches are made through them.

The results are assessed after twenty minutes, a day, two days.

The injection method, or Prick-test, is more convenient. A drop of solution is injected through an injection to a depth of 0.1 mm.

Results are assessed in fifteen minutes.

Carrying out intradermal tests is advisable if scratch tests do not give reliable results or raise doubts. In this case, 0.02 mm of allergenic solution is injected into the skin.

Laboratory methods

The main method of laboratory research is the identification of immunoglobulins E (IgE) in the patient’s blood based on blood sampling materials.

The following tests are carried out:

radioallergosorbent test (RAST);
enzyme immunoassay (ELISA).

Additional methods for studying the immune response are other tests performed in laboratories:

reaction of specific damage to basophils;
mast cell destruction method;
reaction of inhibition of leukocyte migration;
passive hemagglutination reaction.

How are allergy tests done in children? Details in the article.

Voll method

The most controversial is the Voll computer diagnostic method.

The specialist evaluates the electrical vibrations created by the patient’s nervous system at electropuncture points.

If an experienced doctor works, then the probability of correctly identifying the allergen is almost absolute.

It is precisely the incorrect interpretation of computer program readings that may cause inaccuracies in making a diagnosis.

Based on the information received about functional changes, the doctor has the opportunity to prescribe the most effective medicine and select an individual treatment regimen.

Diagnosis in children

Pediatric allergists most often resort to skin allergy tests, despite the possible complications associated with this method.

This is primarily due to the fact that skin tests can detect a very wide range of allergens.

However, such studies are not carried out for children under five years of age due to the physiological inability to stand still for the first fifteen minutes.

Therefore, laboratory tests of blood serum are most often carried out for children before they reach the age of five.

A mild form of allergy, accompanied by a slight decrease in quality of life and not posing an immediate threat to the patient’s life, is treated with antihistamines, for example, Loratadine, Zyrtec, Fenistil.

To relieve allergic rhinitis, nasal sprays are used; tablets can cope with minor skin manifestations.

If the skin has a severe degree of damage such as eczema, neurodermatitis, atopic dermatitis, hormonal corticosteroid drugs in the form of ointments are prescribed.

Severe cases involving suffocation upon contact with an animal can be treated with intramuscular injection of fast-acting, powerful hormonal agents (for example, prednisolone) and anti-asthmatic drugs.

Long-term therapy using the hyposensitization method can lead to long-term remission, reduce sensitivity to allergens, and strengthen the immune system.

The method involves subcutaneous injections of microdoses of the allergen to stimulate the production of one's own antibodies.

This kind of training continues for several months, allowing the patient to more easily tolerate contact with animals.

Prevention

A good prevention of wool allergies is daily wet cleaning, at least in the children's room.

The baby's contact with dust, animals, and products made from sheep, dog, and camel wool should be reduced to zero.

The basic principles of disease prevention are as follows:

no pets;
if this is not possible, then daily bathing and cleaning the animal’s fur;
daily wet cleaning of premises, including treatment of all surfaces. You should not use a vacuum cleaner: it lifts the smallest particles of dust into the air, and this suspension “settles” within a few hours;
complete rejection of “dust collectors”: fleecy carpets, heavy curtains, etc.;
regular weekly (or more frequent) removal of dust that accumulates in the animal’s bedding;
treating the animal’s place of residence with antibacterial solutions;
installation of a good ventilation system, ionizers and air purifiers in the apartment, frequent ventilation, and, if possible, quartz treatment.

Methods for preventing sensitization to fur cannot include replacing fluffy cats with so-called “naked” ones, that is, not covered with hair.

As was said, the reaction is caused not by the fur itself, but by dander, saliva, and other biological fluids of the animal. “Sphinxes” are capable of provoking an allergic onset no less than “Persians”.

Prevention of sensitization should begin during fetal development.

take antibacterial drugs with caution;
follow a diet excluding highly allergenic foods: eggs, citrus fruits, chocolate

If parents suffer from allergies, prolonged breastfeeding is indicated for the newborn.

Children suffering from foodborne illness are most often susceptible to a negative reaction to the hair of cats, dogs, sheep and other animals.

They should be limited in spicy and salty foods and sweets.

If sensitization has begun, you should not hope for its sudden disappearance. Therefore, it is better to get rid of your pet.

Prolonged contact can lead to sad, life-threatening consequences.

If you find yourself in the same apartment with a cat or dog (for example, as a guest), you should avoid direct contact with the animal and avoid places where allergens may accumulate.

If the visit is known in advance, you need to take an antihistamine.

Why does an allergy to buckwheat occur? Details here.

What to do with the animal

Any animal can provoke the appearance of symptoms of sensitization.

It happens that a pet causes illness in a newborn. What to do in this case? The right decision is, no matter how difficult it is, to part with the animal.

The only way to cure allergies, doctors say, is to completely eliminate contact with the allergen.

The animal must be left in good hands. If this is a purebred dog, then you can consult with the breeders about its future place of residence.

For cats, it is worth finding a good owner from among close people or acquaintances.

Allergy to animal fur is one of the most common types of illness.

Timely and adequate measures taken after the first manifestation of the disease and active prevention of the disease reduce unpleasant consequences and the threat of complications to a minimum.

Allergy to wool symptoms

Allergy to pet fur is a fairly common problem faced by people who decide to keep a dog or cat in their home for the first time.

What can be done in this case and is it possible to leave an already beloved animal at home?

To answer this question, you first need to find out what kind of allergen the body’s unusual reaction occurred to and whether the main reason for this really lies in the pet.

How common are allergies to cats and dogs?

Allergic reactions of various types in the modern world tend to increase. That is, if decades ago allergies were a rare phenomenon, now they cover more than half of the population.

And allergy to animal fur belongs to the group of the most common intolerance reactions.

The disease may not develop immediately upon first contact with an animal; in some people, initial signs of the disease appear several months after a new family member appears in the house.

Contribute to the development of an allergic reaction:

Weakened immunity;
Somatic diseases;
Poor pet care;
Diseases of the digestive system.

A high likelihood of animal intolerance is more often observed in people who already suffer from other types of allergens.

It is possible to assume a high risk of allergies in those children whose parents have allergic diseases. That is, there is a predisposition in the development of the disease.

You should not buy a cat or dog for your home without first consulting a doctor if one of the family members has bronchial asthma or atopic dermatitis.

In most cases, when these people acquire an animal, their general health worsens, that is, attacks of bronchial asthma intensify, and dermatitis worsens.

Naturally, there are exceptions to the rules, but in order not to harm your health, before purchasing cats and dogs, it is advisable to undergo an additional examination, that is, using special tests, you need to identify a predisposition to an allergy to animal fur.

According to available statistics, every fifth of our compatriots exhibits symptoms of an allergy to animal fur. Moreover, not only adults, but also children are susceptible to this common disease. In today's article you will find detailed information about this disease.

Stages of disease development

An allergen that enters the human body is immediately attacked by the immune system. After this, the cells absorb some of the molecules of the destroyed foreign agent. Thanks to this, they produce an antigen and, with the help of circulating blood, distribute information about the allergen to all systems and organs.

In case of repeated contact with the agent, the body's cells immediately begin to fight it. In the area of contact with the allergen, blood vessels dilate, causing lymphocytes to gather towards the dangerous area. The more of them there are at the point of contact, the more pronounced the symptoms of an allergy to animal fur will be.

At the stage of clinical manifestations, damage occurs to the respiratory and sometimes digestive system. Human skin may experience redness and irritation. The speed of the reaction directly depends on the individual characteristics of the organism. Typically, the first symptoms of an allergy to animal fur begin to appear within an hour and a half from the moment of contact.

How does this disease manifest?

The main symptoms of this disease are in many ways similar to those characteristic of allergies to pollen. As a rule, the disease is accompanied by lacrimation, sneezing, nasal congestion and even asthma attacks.

Depending on the individual characteristics of the body, symptoms can appear in a period from several hours to six months. It is important that during this entire period the patient is under the supervision of specialists. A person prone to allergies to animal fur may develop eczema, urticaria and neuroderma. In most cases, such patients experience severe itching, swelling of the eyelids, shortness of breath and asthma attacks.

Allergy to cats: symptoms in adults

The cause of the development of this disease is usually not the animals themselves, but the secretion that is secreted by their skin. Representatives of the cat family carefully monitor the cleanliness of their bodies, so they constantly lick themselves. As a result of these actions, the allergenic protein ends up not only on their fur, but also where they sit or sleep.

It has been proven that males secrete more of this substance than females. Symptoms of cat allergy in adults include nasal congestion and itching. Patients also experience increased lacrimation, swelling of the face and a frequent dry cough. Often such patients complain of a sore throat, hives, hoarseness and difficulty breathing. In especially severe cases, it comes to an asthmatic attack and Quincke's edema.

Allergy to dogs

The skin of these domestic animals secretes Can F1. High concentrations of this allergen are observed in representatives of short-haired breeds. It is present on the body of furry dogs, but not in such quantities. Even with careful care of the animal, its skin will not stop producing a substance that causes a negative reaction in the human body. This allergen accumulates on furniture, carpets, curtains and toys. Moreover, its viability remains for a fairly long period.

Most often, an allergy to dogs manifests itself in the form of a dry cough, redness of the eyes, swelling of the nasopharynx and increased tearing. Patients often experience severe skin itching and hoarseness. These symptoms are felt especially acutely by people suffering from bronchial asthma. Such patients may experience an attack of suffocation and Quincke's edema.

Diagnostic methods

Having figured out how an allergy to animal fur manifests itself, you need to say a few words about what tests and studies are prescribed to identify the problem. In most cases, patients are recommended to undergo prick skin tests. This analysis is performed using a special instrument that is used to make a notch on the inside of the forearm.

Patients are also prescribed prick testing. The technique for performing it is similar to the scarification test. But in this case, a needle with a limiter is used as a tool.

Intradermal tests are considered a good method for identifying an allergen. In this case, the reagent is administered using an insulin syringe. The presence of an allergy is judged by the size of the blisters that appear.

Voll's computer technique is recognized as one of the most accurate and effective diagnostic methods.

To obtain reliable results, you should stop taking antihistamines several days before visiting the treatment room. Contraindications to testing are: tuberculosis, pregnancy and infectious processes. Such tests should not be performed during periods of exacerbation of chronic diseases.

Principles of therapy

Those who want to figure out how to cure an allergy to animal fur need to remember that when the first symptoms of this disease occur, you need to consult a specialist. This is the only way you can completely eliminate the health problem and prevent the development of serious complications.

As for treatment, doctors distinguish three main stages, including:

Antiallergic therapy. It involves the use of antihistamines.
Symptomatic therapy, involving the use of anti-asthmatic drugs, eye drops and nasal sprays.
Immunotherapy, which consists of subcutaneous injection of small volumes of antigen.

The most effective tablets for allergies to animal hair include drugs such as Suprastin, Loratadine, Claritin, Nasonex, Astelin, Zirtek, Zyrtek and Flonaz.

How dangerous is this disease?

Wool allergies are considered one of the most common health problems. It is not seasonal and can appear at any age. This disease is dangerous not only for adults, but also for children.

If treated incorrectly or untimely, an allergy to pet hair can have serious consequences. At best, it will cause constant stress, irritability, fatigue, headaches and decreased immunity.

In particularly advanced situations, it leads to the development of chronic bronchitis, laryngitis, rhinitis or asthma. Theoretically, anaphylactic shock, ending in laryngeal edema and death of the patient, cannot be ruled out.

To prevent animal dander allergy symptoms from returning to your life, you need to follow a few simple rules. First of all, we need to avoid all contact with our smaller brothers. If you already have a furry pet, it is advisable to rehome it in good hands.

If you plan to visit friends who have dogs or cats, start taking antihistamines shortly before your planned visit. Additionally, ask your host not to allow their animals into your designated area.

Do wet cleaning more often, paying special attention to corners and hard-to-reach places where allergens can accumulate. Try not to use a vacuum cleaner, as this device picks up tiny dust particles that can linger in the air for a long time. Instead of thick curtains, hang light curtains on your windows. Ventilate your living spaces more often and, if possible, get an ionizer, a powerful ventilation system or an air conditioner equipped with an air purification function.

Animals that do not cause allergies

As a rule, it is very difficult for people suffering from this disease to find a pet. Therefore, many of them are interested in what kind of animal to get if they are allergic to wool. In such cases, experts recommend keeping aquarium fish, hairless guinea pigs or chinchillas at home.

The list of permitted animals also includes exotic specimens, such as Madagascar cockroaches, snakes, lizards, frogs and turtles. However, all these animals, frankly speaking, are not for everyone. After all, not everyone will agree that a reptile will exist next to them.

Cats and dogs for allergy sufferers

If, despite everything, you still decide to get a dog, then pay attention to the Mexican hairless breed. There is no fur on the body of these animals at all. But this does not mean that they cannot cause allergies. To minimize the risk of exacerbation of the disease, wash your animal regularly and make sure that particles of its saliva do not get into your nose.

Hypoallergenic breeds also include Yorkshire Terriers, Poodles, Shorthaired Schnauzers, Miniature Spitz, Papillons, Chinese Crested, Shih Tzu, Samoyed, Bichon and Maltese.

As for cats, you will have to choose between the Devon Rex, Javanese, Cornish Rex, Don and Canadian Sphynx. In addition, hypoallergenic animals include representatives of the Siberian, Russian Blue, Oriental and Balinese breeds. Many of them have a very specific appearance and have virtually no undercoat, and some representatives are completely bald.

Before purchasing a four-legged friend, be sure to consult with your doctor. But even in this case, you are not immune from the appearance of symptoms of the disease. Therefore, when you get a dog or cat from the above list, forget about taking precautions. Regularly bathe your pet using special shampoos, trim and comb its fur. Try to ensure that the animal does not enter the room in which you sleep. Systematically do wet cleaning in the house and periodically ventilate the rooms.

Allergy to animal fur– the most common allergic reaction, it occurs in approximately 15% of people. Typically, such a pathology does not appear immediately after the first contact with a new animal, but after some time.

It is widely believed that an allergy to animals is caused by their fur. Hence the misconception that the best friends of allergy sufferers are hairless cats.

In fact, if dogs or cats cause someone to itch, sneeze, or wipe away tears, it is because the person is reacting poorly to the protein secreted by the animals. This protein is found in all secretions of the pet’s body: sweat, saliva, sebum, urine, etc. Of course, some protein particles end up on the fur, and with it they are carried throughout the house. Actually, this gave reason to associate the disease with animal fur.

To be fair, it should be noted that genuine allergies to wool do exist, but they are extremely rare. If a person develops a rash after contact with a pet, but can calmly wear a woolen scarf or sweater, then we are talking about a reaction to irritant proteins secreted by the animal.

Based on the following symptoms:

Cough– inflammation and swelling of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract. A dry or wet cough is possible.
Nasal congestion– this is the most common symptom of the disease, observed in 3/4 of patients. Accompanied by swelling of the mucous membrane, difficulty breathing.
Hoarseness of voice– the shape of the vocal cords is disrupted, and this affects the frequency of vibration of the voice.
Dyspnea– different types of shortness of breath may develop, characterized by swelling of the airways and palatine tonsils. It is a sign of allergies in the presence of bronchial asthma.
Ear congestion is an inflammatory process that occurs in the Eustachian tube, which causes pressure changes in the inner ear.
Cyanosis– blueing of the epidermis due to a change in the color of the blood flowing in its integument. Cyanosis is a symptom of damage to the respiratory system.
– abundant spots several millimeters long. There is local irritation (where contact with the allergy trigger occurs) and a reaction throughout the body.
- a consequence of the rash.
Rapid breathing and heart rate– the autonomic nervous system reacts to a sharp decrease in pressure.
Dizziness– lack of oxygen in some areas of the brain, resulting from pressure changes.
Diarrhea and vomiting- a very dangerous symptom that can cause ulcers.
Abdominal pain- the result of inflammation of the intestinal mucosa.

Causes

An allergy to animal fur is not a normal reaction of the body, although it occurs as a protective reaction to interaction with an allergen. The immune system begins to work against itself, and the body tries to destroy the allergen, causing harm to its own tissues and cells.

Main allergens on wool:

Saliva– There are many more enzymes in the saliva of animals, since animals have to eat roughage, and too high a protein and amylase content makes the saliva dangerous.
Directly herself wool– here the allergen is carotene, which has a different structure in different animals. For this reason, a person is usually allergic to only one type of pet - most often it is an allergy to the hair of dogs or cats.
Skin scales- the most dangerous allergen, invisible to the eye, so it is extremely difficult to treat. Particles of animal skin are exfoliated, crushed and acquire a semblance of dust. This dust is spread during the activity of pets and settles on interior items, furniture and clothing.
Urine– differs from human ones in being more acidic, so when it gets on the skin, it can cause irritation and reduce the protective function of the epidermis. Particles of urine are spread through the pet's fur during its “washing”, after which they cause allergies.
Feces– have a high level of immunoglobulin, which is dangerous for humans.

Natural defense of the body

Previously, it was widely believed that an allergy to wool is a pathology, and the body has no protection against an allergic reaction.

The development of the disease requires the allergen to enter the blood or lymph, but before this happens, any allergen encounters the natural defenses of the human body:

Saliva– maltase, which is contained in saliva, breaks down carbohydrates and can destroy the allergen.
Gastric juice is an aggressive environment that destroys the irritating factor.
Bile– crushes substances, breaks down fats, and as the allergen disintegrates, it loses its ability to have any effect on the body.
Intestinal microflora– helps maintain balance in the immune system, which minimizes the risk of allergies.
Epidermis– has a protective function that protects a person from contact with the pathogen. The epidermis also removes harmful waste products from the body.
Sebaceous and sweat glands– form an impermeable thin film, which is additional.

Stages of development

The mechanism of development of the disease includes the following stages:

Immune reactions. This is the first stage of the disease. The immune system absorbs the allergen, providing protection to the body. After the destruction of the agent, the cells create an antigen by absorbing part of the allergen molecules. Through blood circulation, information about the causative agent of the reaction is carried throughout the body. Upon repeated interaction with the agent, other organs and cells are already “notified” of the upcoming threat and proceed to immediately eliminate it.
Biochemical reaction. Lymphocytes, upon repeated interaction with the allergen, “flock” to the site of the threat.
Clinical manifestations. An allergic reaction to wool is characterized by damage to the respiratory system, and less commonly, the digestive system. Symptoms of the disease can affect the epidermis, causing redness and irritation. The speed of the body's reaction depends on its characteristics.

Diagnostics

Diagnostics is the most important aspect in the treatment of allergies, since timely identification of the essence of the problem makes it possible to avoid contact with the pathogen and undergo treatment that will prevent complications of the disease.

Depending on your symptoms, you can contact:

see an allergist if there are obvious symptoms of the disease;
see a pulmonologist if asthma occurs or worsens;
see a dermatologist in case of manifestations of .

At your appointment, you must describe all your symptoms as specifically and in detail as possible. The doctor may ask additional questions, which must be answered truthfully to make a correct diagnosis.

If a rash is present, the doctor should examine the affected areas. If the patient does not have clinical symptoms, medical diagnosis is carried out:

general blood analysis– determines signs of inflammation and the presence of an irritant, characterized by a high content of leukocytes;
blood chemistry– increased content of immune complexes and protein;
Analysis of urine– an increased protein concentration is a sign of the presence of inflammatory processes inside the body, and the presence of destroyed blood components indicates impaired kidney function;
immunogram– increase in class E immunoglobulins;
scarification tests– damage to the skin of the forearm, where different types of allergen are applied to detect a reaction.

Types of allergies

Allergies are not limited to dogs and cats. An undesirable reaction can be provoked by any animal: a small mouse, a large cow, etc. However, most people very rarely come into contact with artiodactyls and rodents, and reactions to dogs and cats are much more common. Let's take a closer look at them.

Allergy to cat hair

This type of illness is much more common than a reaction to dog hair. Cats regularly lick their fur, leaving saliva particles that are a strong allergen. And this fur subsequently remains everywhere where the pet was, it accumulates especially quickly on carpets and upholstered furniture.

Thus, hypoallergenic breeds are simply less allergenic due to the characteristics of their fur or its complete absence. For example, a Cornish Rex cat, which has fine hair, sheds much less than a British cat with fluffy and thick fur that scatters throughout the house.

It is also believed that light-colored animals produce fewer allergens than dark-colored animals. Gender also plays a role: cats are more allergenic.

Allergy to dog hair

In the case of dogs, the recommendations for choosing the safest breed are the same as with cats: pets with coarse, short hair are preferable. It is also advisable to choose a small dog, for example, a toy terrier produces much less irritation than a St. Bernard.

Puppies of the same breed can provoke different reactions, since all dogs produce different amounts of allergens. And this is important, since a reaction will not occur until the substance exceeds the permissible threshold, which is also different for any allergy sufferer.

The choice of a pet should be approached rationally. If you are going to get yourself a pet, then ask the seller for permission to interact with the puppy you have chosen at least a few times. If as a result of contact with the animal there is no negative reaction from the body, you can try to live together.

Treatment

Treatment of allergies is an extremely difficult task that requires discipline and self-control of the patient. The main emphasis is on lifestyle changes.

So, first it is recommended to change the interior to a more comfortable and simple one, which can be wet cleaned. The patient is also required to limit contact with allergens as much as possible. Prescribing an individual diet and changing the diet will significantly reduce the number of inflammatory processes that occur.

Allergy is a pathological disease, so it cannot be completely cured. Doctors recommend (a course of potent drugs) that will reduce or eliminate the manifestations of the disease. However, when interacting with the allergen, symptoms will appear again.

The following drugs help fight the disease:

WITH systemic medications– they eliminate shortness of breath, itching, skin irritation, cough, nasal congestion, abdominal pain. They have an immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effect. Used intramuscularly several times a day.
Antihistamines– eliminate swelling, cough, hoarseness, skin irritation, shortness of breath, abdominal discomfort. The effect of the drug slows down the human body's reaction to an irritant and accelerates decontamination. Medicines of this type can be produced in the form of tablets, injections, syrups, and gels.
Mast cell stabilizers- these remedies eliminate the main symptoms allergies, and their main effect increases the excitability of mast cells. Stabilizers are available in the form of tablets that must be taken several times a day.
Topical corticosteroids- a product with a strong anti-inflammatory effect, available in the form of gels and tablets.
Local adrenergic agonists– eliminate the simplest symptoms (cough, hoarseness, nasal congestion). Reduce swelling and have a vasoconstrictor effect. Produced in the form of drops.
Bronchodilators– help to avoid attacks of shortness of breath, produced in the form of injections and sprays.
Antispasmodics- These are remedies against diarrhea and abdominal pain, relax the muscles of the organs, and reduce painful manifestations. Produced in the form of injections.
Enzyme preparations– replenish the lack of intestinal and pancreatic enzymes, fight against intestinal inflammation. Produced in tablet form.

Allergies in children

In a child, allergies manifest themselves very quickly; 15-20 minutes of contact with an animal is enough for him to experience an acute allergic reaction. The symptoms of an allergic reaction in children differ significantly from those in adults. Most often, children under 5 years of age suffer from animal allergies.

The main signs of allergies in children:

, the child develops redness on the skin;
respiratory dysfunction;
swelling of the mucous membrane;
the child sneezes often.

Prevention

If you suspect an allergic reaction to pet fur in your child or yourself, the first thing you need to do is get examined and diagnosed by a doctor. If the allergy is confirmed, the doctor will make prescriptions that will depend on your well-being and the severity of your symptoms.

Interesting fact! According to the results of the experiments, 13% of the subjects were “cured” of an allergic reaction to animal fur using a placebo, simply by “persuading” the immune system. However, the practical usefulness of this method remains questionable.

If the presence of an allergy is confirmed, someone chooses to undergo a therapeutic injection course, someone chooses to give their pet into good hands, and someone tries to find a compromise: leave the animal and not suffer themselves. If you are one of the first, then prevention becomes of paramount importance to you.

So, you can reduce the number of allergens in the following ways:

Bathe your pet every week. According to the results of research by American scientists, it is best to wash cats this way: you need to dip your pet up to the neck in a container of water at 38°C, hold for 3 minutes, and then immerse it in a container of clean water for another 3 minutes. Following these steps reduces the number of wool allergy pathogens by 84%. True, the creators of the method are silent about how you can force an animal to remain calmly in the water for 6 minutes.
Pet stores offer special shampoos that reduce the number of allergens.
Use high-quality litter for the tray, which should not crumble and absorb well - for this reason, pieces of newspaper and sand are not suitable. The fact is that cat urine contains many allergens (they remain on the paws and are spread throughout the house if insufficient quality litter is used).
Keep your pets off the bed.
Avoid stuffed pet houses and plush pillows, as they accumulate large amounts of allergens from pet fur.
Monitor your pet's health. Problems with the genitourinary system and intestines increase the number of allergens.
Do wet cleaning as often as possible.
Install an air disinfectant/purifier. It reduces the content of allergens in the air.

There are cases when allergic symptoms disappear in allergy sufferers as a result of prolonged interaction with animals. This indicates that the body gradually ceases to consider the stimulus foreign.

By the way, it is known that children who grew up with pets from the age of one year have a lower risk of allergies. Their immunity does not perceive allergens as irritants, since they have always been present in the environment.

Allergy to cat fur is a fairly common problem among pets. This is the human body's reaction to an allergen. It can arise for various reasons and manifest itself in different ways.

The disease may not appear immediately, but only after some time has passed, as a new family member has appeared. More often, children suffer from allergies, while adults are more resistant to it.

People who already suffer from other types of allergies have a high chance of suffering from animal intolerance.

One of the reasons contributes to the development of an allergic reaction:

weakened body immunity;
presence of somatic disease;
lack or very poor cat care;
diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

It's not just wool that can cause allergies. Often it is caused by urine, saliva, secretions of the animal’s sweat and sebaceous glands. Cat fur acts as an allergen only in 30% of cases.

Symptoms

Allergies to cat fur and its waste products manifest themselves in different ways. It all depends on the level of damage to the body and the strength of the allergen.

The main symptoms of an allergy to cat fur:

runny nose;
redness and swelling of the mucous membrane of the eyes and nose;
constant nasal discharge and lacrimation;
sneezing, coughing;
feeling that there is a constant ache in the throat;
difficulty breathing;
My nose itches all the time.

The condition resembles a cold, but is in no way related to it.

Also, human skin reacts violently to an allergen.:

redness of varying degrees and localization on the body;
A rash may occur, which is localized both in one place and throughout the body. This could be hives, small pimples or large blisters. This is impossible to predict;
Such rashes are accompanied by intolerable itching. You want to scratch your pimples all the time, but you can’t do that;
Quincke's edema. It occurs when there is a high concentration of allergens and when their effect is strong.

These signs are the most common, but dizziness, rapid heartbeat and breathing, and irregular pulse rhythm are also possible. The child may still feel nausea, stomach pain, and various disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract.

All symptoms rapidly increase if exposure to the allergen is not stopped and treatment is not prescribed.

Treatment

First of all, therapeutic methods are aimed at relieving symptoms that interfere with a person’s normal life. Afterwards, it is necessary to limit communication with the cat, or get rid of it completely. General cleaning of the house, which includes treating all corners of the apartment with detergents, and washing carpets and curtains, will not be superfluous.

It is necessary to consult a doctor who, after examining and collecting the necessary tests, will prescribe effective treatment.

It consists of three stages:

taking antiallergic drugs;
therapy that relieves symptoms. These include eye and nasal drops;
taking or injecting immunostimulating drugs.

Danger of disease

Every third person faces the problem of allergy to wool. It is characterized by seasonality and can occur at completely different ages. This is a dangerous disease for adults and children.

Consequences in case of lack or incorrect treatment:

constant weakness, loss of strength, severe headaches;
severe decrease in immunity;
development of bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis, rhinitis;
anaphylactic shock, severe swelling of the larynx and suffocation.

Prevention

It is worth following several rules of prevention so as not to encounter allergies.:

keep the animal at a distance, do not contact it;
observe his hygiene in all respects;
Carry out frequent wet cleaning in the house, without using a vacuum cleaner;
acquire air purification or ionization devices;
or get rid of the cat forever, hand it over to good and reliable hands.

Allergy to wool is a complex and dangerous disease. It is dangerous due to its consequences, which threaten human health and even life. You should not delay treatment, and even better, before getting a four-legged friend, go through all the tests for allergies.

Very often, love for pets can be accompanied by negative reactions, among which the first place is occupied by an allergy to a dog.

Scientists have proven that this disease occurs in 17% of the world's population. It is characteristic that an allergic reaction can be provoked by any breed of dog, regardless of whether the owner carefully looks after it or not.

After negative symptoms appear, and diagnostic examinations confirm that it was the dog that provoked it, the doctor prescribes symptomatic and systemic therapy.

Factors contributing to the development of the disease

A fairly large number of patients suffer from allergic reactions to pets, but it should be noted that the existing opinion that smooth-haired breeds do not cause allergies is deeply erroneous. First of all, because the strongest allergens are natural DISCHARGE and SALIVA, and not wool.

The amount of allergenic protein produced by an animal directly depends on the breed of dog, its size, living conditions, health and gender. The negative reaction of the human body is aggravated by the presence of allergenic particles and toxins in the surrounding air.

You can identify a negative reaction specifically to the presence of a pet by limiting contact with it for a month. During this period of time, the premises and all things that came into contact with the dog are completely disinfected. In the case where the measures taken led to a decrease or complete removal of allergic symptoms, and further interaction with pets caused another exacerbation, we can confidently state that it is dogs that cause the allergy symptoms.

If an allergic reaction begins to manifest itself in the spring-summer period, you should resort to professional diagnosis, since the cause of the disease is possible for other reasons that are closely related to the animal. For example, pollen, sunlight, chemical elements, etc. can cause an allergic attack, especially if such allergens settle on the animal’s fur during a walk.

Symptoms

The patient may learn about the presence of an allergic reaction completely unexpectedly, because it can occur at any time, and even if the pet has lived in the family for a long time.

The following symptoms are typical for an allergic reaction:

rhinitis;
itching and hyperemia of the skin;
dermatitis and urticaria;
tissue swelling and suffocation;
pinpoint rashes.

If such symptoms occur immediately after interacting with a dog, emergency measures should be taken. Sometimes signs of an allergy to dogs can be “erased” and occur latently, which greatly complicates diagnosis. However, dog allergies may be confused with some other diseases.

Course of the disease in children

Sometimes, after an animal appears in the house where the child is, parents notice that the baby develops a rash, is capricious and refuses to eat. These symptoms indicate an allergic reaction.

Often, a dog hair allergy is actually a response from an immature immune system to allergic proteins present in the dog's body fluids, epithelial cells, and feces.

The amount of aggressive proteins depends on the size of the animal, its gender, living conditions and feeding. In addition, scientists say that animals with dark colors are much more likely to cause an allergic reaction in children.

In this case, the baby may experience skin hyperemia and burning, especially in places of contact with the animal. Infants begin to sneeze and cough frequently, and may experience wheezing and difficulty breathing. The mucous membranes become inflamed, and lacrimation is noted. In addition, an allergic reaction can provoke asthma in a child, which is quite difficult to neutralize. In severe cases, anaphylactic shock and Quincke's edema may develop. These conditions can develop instantly and pose a threat to the patient.

To identify a child's allergy directly to a dog, a blood test is recommended. It is extremely rare for children to be given a skin test, since due to the immaturity of the immune system, it can show questionable results. If the baby is breastfed, breast milk is analyzed for the presence of allergens.

As a rule, the most effective indicator is to stop contact with the animal. If, after fulfilling this condition, the negative symptoms gradually decrease, we can say with confidence whether there is an allergy to the animal.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of allergies involves, first of all, contacting an allergist, who conducts a visual examination of the patient and collects an allergy history.

For a more accurate diagnosis, a skin test is prescribed, and the blood is also examined (allergy test). Such testing can confirm or, conversely, refute an allergy, especially if a person has doubts.

Sometimes the patient mistakes allergic reactions to plant pollen remaining on the pet’s fur after a street walk for a true allergy to the dog. Moreover, only analysis, in case of allergies to dogs, allows one to identify these manifestations with the subsequent prescription of therapy.

Allergic predisposition to certain types of allergens can be checked using a skin prick test, when the suspected allergen, dissolved in distilled water, is applied to small scratches in the forearm area. Based on the results of this test, a conclusion is made about a specific allergen that causes a response from the immune system.

Hypoallergenic dog breeds

A large number of patients believe that some dog breeds, especially short-haired ones, are not capable of provoking an allergic reaction. This opinion is not entirely correct, since negative symptoms are extremely rarely caused directly by the animal’s fur. Most often these are dog waste products. Many people suffering from allergies ask veterinarians and allergists which dogs have no negative manifestations of the immune system and whether it is possible to live with them in the same room?

There is a list of hypoallergenic dogs that people who decide to get an animal rely on.

1. SHORT-HAIR BREEDS. In nature, there are dogs with almost complete absence of hair. With proper care, the likelihood of developing an allergic reaction is minimal.

One of these breeds is the Hairless American Terrier, which was artificially bred. These dogs have only eyebrows and whiskers on their body, and their skin is immune to various diseases and injuries.

The terrier is characterized by extreme mobility and jumping ability. Its color can vary from the main tone to the appearance of contrasting spots. In addition, the skin of these dogs is prone to tanning, so it is necessary to control the time the pet stays in direct sunlight.

2. NON-SHEDDING, WIRE-HAIRED BREEDS. There are dog breeds that do not shed. Such dogs do not lose their grown hair, so it is trimmed. One such breed is the Cairn Terrier. This animal is small in stature and very friendly.

The Bedlington Terrier is more aristocratic, slightly reminiscent of an affectionate sheep. He is quite smart and balanced. In addition, these dog breeds produce small amounts of allergenic protein. Schnauzers have similar properties, ranging from small Giant Schnauzers to the most popular Miniature Schnauzers, which are considered service dogs.

3. WITH CURLY WOOL. As strange as it may sound, curly hair does not fall out during shedding, but it requires more careful care. For allergy sufferers, it is recommended to keep poodles belonging to this group. These animals are well trained and adapt well to the family.

Recently, a mixture of poodle and Labrador - Labradoodle - has often been chosen. Initially, the creators of this breed intended to use such dogs for visually impaired people who suffer from allergies. These animals are extremely smart, flexible and sociable.

In addition, there are Portuguese and Spanish water dogs that have more than just curly hair - it curls into a kind of rope and requires special care. However, these dogs are also considered hypoallergenic. There are practically no allergies to them.

4. NO UNDERCOAT. The most popular breed of dog is one with no undercoat. These include lap dogs (Maltese, Bichon and Bolognese). These animals' fur is similar in structure to human hair. These animals are very affectionate and adored by children.

In addition, this group also includes Silky Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers.

Allergy treatment

When an allergic attack develops, symptomatic therapy is prescribed, which reduces the manifestation of acute symptoms. It is important to note that there is no universal cure for allergies.

Treatment for this type of allergy is no different from others:

to relieve itching and redness, the patient is prescribed antihistamines (Benadryl, Zyrtec, Claritin, Erius, etc.);
in order to neutralize swelling, decongestant drugs are recommended (Allagra-D, Sudafed, etc.);
Relief of allergic rhinitis is performed with drugs such as Nasonex, Oxymetazoline, etc.;
toxins are removed from the body using enterosorbents (Enterosgel, activated carbon, etc.);

in severe cases, oral or injectable steroid medications for dog allergies are recommended (Prednisolone, Diprospan, Hydrocortisone, etc.). In this case, it is important to take into account the severity of the symptoms, since, for example, a Prednisolone tablet acts much more slowly than an injection with a similar drug. Hormone therapy can only be prescribed by a doctor, since only a qualified specialist knows how to cure dog allergies using drug therapy;
To strengthen the body's defenses, it is recommended to take immunostimulating drugs (tincture of Eleutherococcus, Echinacea, etc.).

It must be remembered that if treatment is not timely, the acute stage may transition to the chronic stage. Such manifestations are most dangerous when children are allergic to dogs. The development of such a situation may be unpredictable.

If it is impossible to neutralize allergic symptoms, including with the help of drug therapy and preventive measures, you will have to part with your pet and find a new home and a loving owner for it.

Prevention measures

Patients who have daily contact with a pet must know what measures need to be taken to prevent an allergic reaction.

If you know that a family member is hypersensitive to dogs, you should choose hypoallergenic dog breeds.

The room where the animal is kept must be regularly treated with disinfectants. It is important to carry out ventilation and wet cleaning in order to remove hair and particles of the epidermis in case of an allergic reaction to the dog’s epithelium, provoking the development of an acute allergic attack.
It is recommended to remove as much as possible from the apartment products made of pile, carpets, bedspreads, etc., where allergens may accumulate.
It is best to install a high-quality air purifier indoors and limit the dog’s access to the master bedroom.
It is necessary to care for the animal as thoroughly as possible (bathing twice within 7 days, because water removes accumulated allergens on the animal’s fur). In addition, you need to trim your dog's fur in a timely manner. If possible, the dog should be treated outdoors.
During times of greatest allergic danger (molting, mating season, etc.), the animal should be isolated, away from the allergic person. In addition, if there is an allergic reaction to a dog, another family member who does not suffer from allergies should take care of it (feeding, cleaning the room, etc.). If this is not possible, all protective measures must be taken (mask, gloves, separate clothing).
You should always carry antihistamines with you for emergency use.

It is important to remember that you should be attentive to the initial symptoms of the disease, since timely treatment in most cases allows you to stop the allergy at the initial stage of development. If you experience unpleasant sensations in the form of shortness of breath, frequent sneezing, headaches and redness of the skin, it is recommended to immediately consult an allergist, who will tell you how to get rid of allergies to dogs as soon as possible.

If all the methods taken are ineffective, the only solution will be to completely stop contact with the animal. This is the only way to prevent further complications.