Animal Dander

Household pets can be a joy. But they can also be the most common source of animal allergies. (Read about "Allergies") The allergic reactions are provoked by certain proteins that are found in hair and skin particles shed by the animals. According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), these proteins are secreted by oil glands in the animals' skin, which is then shed in dander. Proteins are also in the pets' saliva, which sticks to their fur when the animals lick themselves, and then shed with the hair. Urine is another source of the allergy causing proteins. When the oil, saliva or urine carrying the proteins dries, the proteins can then float into the air or settle into dust, carpets or furniture.

Cats are usually more likely than dogs to cause allergic reactions because they often spend more time indoors and tend to lick themselves more. But even small household pets like mice, guinea pigs and gerbils can cause allergic reactions in some people.

Symptoms of animal dander allergies often involve the respiratory tract. (Read about "Respiratory System") The eyes and skin can be affected too. (Read about "The Eye" "Skin") Symptoms can include:

• sneezing
• runny nose
• stuffy nose
• watery eyes
• coughing
• itchy eyes, nose or throat
• dark circles under the eyes
• hives (Read about "Hives")
• conjunctivitis/pink eye (Read about "Conjunctivitis")

The best way to avoid allergic reactions would be to find another home for your pet. However, since allergies to animals can take a couple of years to develop, you may already be attached to your pet. If you can't bring yourself to give up your animals there are some things that may make living with them a bit easier.

• bathe your pets weekly
• brush (or have someone else brush) them frequently
• keep the pets outside more, or at least out of the bedroom
• vacuum often with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter vacuum
• remove carpets

Animal allergens can stay in carpet and furniture for four to six weeks and in the air for months, even after the animal has been removed. Because of this, it's a good idea for people with animal allergies to check with the landlord or previous owner before moving, to see if pets have previously lived there.

If you can't avoid animals, the next step in allergy control is medications. (Read about "Medicine Safety") There are several types:

• Antihistamines counter the effects of histamine, which is released by the mast cells in the body's tissues and contributes to allergy symptoms. Because of how they work, antihistamines help to relieve the sneezing and itching symptoms. Many antihistamines can produce drowsiness. There are also less sedating antihistamines, but NIAID says some of these can have serious side effects, particularly if they are taken with certain other drugs, so always discuss this with your doctor.
• Topical nasal steroids are anti-inflammatory drugs that stop the allergic reaction. They can reduce the number of mast cells in the nose and reduce mucus secretion and nasal swelling. Ask your doctor about side effects.
• Decongestants (oral or nasal) may be used also, though not for more than a few days, since longer use can lead to even more congestion and swelling of the nasal passages. Again, talk this over with your doctor.

In some cases, immunotherapy or allergy shots may be needed. In immunotherapy, extracts of the offending allergen are injected in the individual in gradually increasing doses. This can help the patient build up immunity to the allergen. The decision to use immunotherapy is based on a number of factors, including how long you've had the allergy and how well you can control it with medication and/or avoidance. Immunotherapy can require a long-term commitment, and costs depend on factors such as where you live and what type of insurance you have. As always, the way someone will react to treatment can vary, so make sure to discuss all options with your physician.

Related Information:

    Immune System Glossary

    Occupational Respiratory Diseases