Allergens
Pet Dander
15 Minute Guide
Pet Dander
If you're one of the millions of people who are allergic to pets, you know how difficult it can be to live with allergies. Pets are a part of many people's lives, and it's not always easy to give them up. However, there are ways that you can manage your allergy and still keep your pet. Pet allergies are triggered by proteins found in pet dander, saliva, and urine, not just pet hair which is a common misunderstanding. Pet dander is invisible, yet it can easily cling to carpets, furniture, walls, and other surfaces. Being lightweight, it can also float through the air and spread to other rooms in your home.
Are you allergic to your pet? The signs
Many people are surprised to find out that they are actually allergic to their beloved furry friend. The most common symptoms of pet allergies are sneezing, stuffy nose, coughing, wheezing, red, itchy, watery eyes, and rash or hives. If you experience any of these symptoms after coming into contact with your pet, It's likely you have an pet allergy and it's important to see an allergist for testing because it's very uncomfortable to live with pet allergies and you might be allergic to other allergens.
Take our Am I Allergic to My Dog Quiz or the Am I Allergic to My Cat Quiz?
How the body reacts to an allergen
Allergies are a complex immune response in which the body senses an otherwise harmless substance as a threat. When an allergen is encountered, the immune system responds by releasing histamines and other chemicals into the bloodstream, causing symptoms such as sneezing, wheezing, or hives. These reactions are intended to help eliminate the perceived threat from the body, but they can also cause serious health problems and discomfort for those who suffer from allergies. Ultimately, understanding how allergies work is critical for anyone who wants to live a healthy and comfortable life despite their allergic sensitivities.
Your mucous membranes and allergens
Mucous membranes are found throughout the body, lining various cavities and covering surfaces that come into contact with the external environment. One of their primary functions is to act as a barrier against harmful substances, such as bacteria and viruses. However, mucous membranes can also become irritated or inflamed in response to allergens, or pet allergens. When this happens, mucous membranes produce excess mucus in an attempt to flush out the allergen. This can lead to symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing. In severe cases, mucous membrane inflammation can cause difficulty breathing.
What is pet dander?
The major cat allergen (Fel d 1) and dog allergen (Can f 1) are proteins found in your pet’s dander, saliva, and urine. A common misconception is that pet hair is the main allergen, but it's actually the dander that triggers allergic reactions. While pet hair itself isn't an allergen, it can carry other allergens like pollen and mold, making the situation worse.
Pet allergens are incredibly tiny, with the average size of a dander particle being just 2.5 microns—about one-tenth the diameter of a human hair. This makes them small enough to pass through HVAC filters and air purifiers, easily becoming airborne and inhaled. Once in the air, these tiny particles can linger for hours, triggering asthma attacks and other respiratory issues. What's even more concerning is that pet allergens are lightweight and can stick to clothes or shoes, quickly spreading from room to room. This means that even if you don’t have a pet, your home can still be filled with pet allergens.
The Difference Between Pet Hair and Pet Dander
It's important to differentiate between pet hair and pet dander. While both can cause allergic reactions, they are not the same. Pet hair is the visible fur that dogs shed, whereas pet dander consists of the microscopic skin flakes. Pet dander can be more problematic because it can remain suspended in the air for extended periods and is easily inhaled, triggering allergic reactions and asthma attacks.
Why is Pet Dander a Problem?
Pet dander contains proteins that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, leading to both short- and long-term health effects. When inhaled, these proteins can cause immediate symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes. For some, exposure can even lead to asthma attacks or worsen existing respiratory conditions. The severity of the reaction varies, with some experiencing mild discomfort, while others face more serious health issues, such as chronic respiratory problems or long-term inflammation in the airways. Prolonged exposure to pet dander can exacerbate these symptoms over time, making it harder for individuals to manage their allergies and potentially leading to ongoing health concerns.
Are pet allergens bad for your health?
What about high concentrations of pet allergens
Side effects of concentrated amounts of pet allergens can be serious and should not be taken lightly. Exposure to high concentrations of pet allergens, such as dander, may lead to a variety of adverse reactions in some individuals. In some cases, prolonged exposure to pet allergens may even contribute to the development of chronic health conditions such as asthma. In severe cases, an animal allergy can even trigger anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction. Therefore, it is important for people with sensitivities to these substances to take steps to minimize their exposure whenever possible.
Can I have pet allergens in my house if I don't have a pet?
The short answer to this question is yes, you can have pet allergens in your house even if you don't own a pet. Pet allergens can travel through the air, and on clothing making it possible for these particles to accumulate in your home regardless of whether or not you own a pet. This is especially true if there are friends or relatives who own pets. So, while having a pet may increase your risk of experiencing allergic reactions to pet dander, it is important to remember that you can still encounter these triggers without having a dog or cat in your home. Did you know that 100% of households contain cat dander even if they don't own a cat?
All about pet allergy skin testing
Allergy skin testing is a way for your allergist to find out what substances are making you allergic. Allergy skin testing is also called skin prick test, intradermal test, or patch test. Allergy skin tests can be used to find out if you’re allergic to pet dander and more. Allergy skin tests are usually done by an allergist. The allergist will place a drop of a substance on your skin and then prick the surface of your skin with a needle. If you’re allergic to the substance, you’ll likely have a raised bump (wheal) and redness (flare) around the site where the prick occurred. If the wheal is large, it may itch. A positive allergy skin test means you may be allergic to that substance. Although, some people may find it uncomfortable to be pricked, allergy skin testing is generally safe.
All about pet allergy blood tests
Allergy blood tests are used to measure the body's immune response to certain allergens. These tests are typically conducted by drawing a sample of blood from the patient, which is then exposed to different potential allergens. If a specific allergen triggers an immune response, this will be detected in the blood sample via changes in various markers or proteins. Allergy blood tests are an important diagnostic tool for evaluating allergies and identifying the best course of treatment. They may involve a series of tests that are repeated over time to monitor whether a patient's condition is improving or worsening, and they can help to guide and personalize treatment plans through exposure therapy or other interventions. Overall, allergy blood tests provide valuable insight into allergic conditions and can help people live better lives with fewer allergy symptoms.
Pros and Cons of Taking Allergy Medication For Your Pet Allergy
When it comes to allergies, many people turn to medication as a way to ease their symptoms and feel better. However, despite its convenience and effectiveness, allergy medication also has its pros and cons. On the one hand, medications like antihistamines and decongestants can help to reduce inflammation and block histamine production, thus reducing the severity of allergy symptoms like runny noses, sneezing, and itchy eyes. Additionally, they are readily available from pharmacies or online, making them simple and convenient to obtain.
However, there are also some downsides to taking allergy medication. For one thing, some medications come with side effects such as drowsiness or dry mouth that can impact quality of life. In addition, pet dander and other common allergens may remain in homes where these medications have been used. This means that while they may provide temporary relief from allergies, they do not address the root cause of the problem. Ultimately, the decision whether or not to take allergy medication is a personal one that should be made based on each person's needs and preferences.
Allergy shots, immunotherapy, and Allergen Spray
While allergy shots are the most effective way to combat allergies, they are not the only option available. Some people may have a severe reaction to the shots, while others simply prefer not to receive them. There are a number of alternatives to allergy shots that can be just as effective in reducing or eliminating allergies. One option is oral immunotherapy, which involves taking gradually increasing doses of allergens in pill or liquid form. Another is sublingual immunotherapy which uses drops of allergens placed under the tongue. A third option is Allergen Spray that helps control pet allergens in the environment without you having to take daily pills or shots. With so many options available, there is no need to suffer from pet allergies any longer.
What is an allergen spray and can I use it in combination with allergy meds?
Allergen Spray are a life-saver for those who suffer from allergies to pets. These sprays help to reduce allergy symptoms by providing a barrier between you and the irritants in your home environment. Third-party lab verified to reduce allergens by up to 99% on surfaces and 95% of allergens in the air just by simply spray your house. So if you're looking to control your allergies without relying on medication, Allergen Spray is an excellent option. Just make sure to use it regularly to control pet allergens because after all, pet dander allergens are shed in your home daily!
How to control pet allergens in your home
Pet allergies can be a major nuisance, making it difficult to breathe or causing discomfort. To control pet allergens in your home, you will need to take a few key steps. The first is to limit your pet's exposure to certain areas of the house, such as bedrooms or where people tend to gather frequently. You should also routinely clean high-traffic areas such as the kitchen or living room. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture. Use a damp mop to remove pet dander and hair from kitchen and bath flooring. Use an allergen spray, regularly. Additionally, you should wash all textiles (clothing, bedding and towels) on a regular basis using a hypoallergenic detergent. By taking these steps, you can help minimize the amount of allergens in your home and improve your quality of life with a beloved pet.
5 steps to reduce pet dander in your home
1. Keep your pet out of the bedroom. This is probably the single most important thing you can do to help reduce your pet allergens. By keeping your pet out of the bedroom, you create a safe haven where you can retreat when symptoms start to flare up. Change into clean clothes before entering the room to reduce pet dander.
2. Vacuum at least twice a week, preferably daily. Vacuuming with a HEPA filter will help to remove pet dander from carpeting and upholstery. Be sure to vacuum regularly, even if you don't have visible signs of dirt or debris. As vacuuming/cleaning can release pet allergens back into the air, it is best to use the Allergen Spray after cleaning and vacuuming.
3. Wash items in hot water, above 130 degrees. Be sure to wash all of your clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water at least once a week. You may also want to consider using a hypoallergenic laundry detergent to further reduce the risk of triggering an allergy.
4. If you want to reduce the amount of pet dander in your home, one of the best things you can do is declutter. Removing unnecessary clutter also helps to minimize dust build-up, which in turn helps to keep pet dander at a minimum. And cleaning your home will be faster and easier.
5. Change your air filters at least once a month. If you have multiple pets, you may need to change your filter even more frequently, even every 2 weeks. Regularly changing your air filters is an important part of keeping your home clean and ensuring you can breathe easier with pet allergies. So if you have a furry friend, add the cost of air filters to you monthly budget. Install a high-rated MERV filter, 10 or above.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still have a pet even though I am allergic? You can but consider hanging out with a friend's pet at their house first. If you're highly allergic, ask your doctor if he advises having a pet.
What options are available besides shots and medication? There are several options, including immunotherapy and allergen sprays, but it is best to talk with your doctor about your particular allergy and course of treatment.
How long do pet allergens stay active? According to the leading allergy diagnostics company, forever.
If I remove the pet from the room will my allergies subside? Unfortunately, the answer is no.
How can I find an effective allergen spray? Look for lab verified allergen sprays preferably third party verified. This means an outside party has tested the product and confirmed that it works to reduce allergens. Also, look for one that doesn't contain harsh chemicals or scents that could add to your allergy burden. Finally, choose one that discloses their ingredients.
Can air purifiers work? Yes, they can help. Just be sure to purchase an air purifier that is rated for the square footage of the room you are going to be using it in (this is very important). Also, check the manufacturer's recommendations on changing or cleaning the purifier's filter.
Glossary of pet allergy terms
Allergens: An allergen is any substance that can trigger a negative reaction in someone who is allergic.
Allergic Reaction: When your body comes into contact with something you're allergic to, it can cause an allergic reaction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can range from mild (a rash or itch) to severe (trouble breathing). In some cases, an allergic reaction can even be life-threatening.
Allergen Spray: A lab verified spray that can help control pet allergens in your home by up to 99% on surfaces and 95% of allergens in the air.
Pet dander: Pet dander is a fine, often microscopic, particle that is shed from the body of a pet.
Oral immunotherapy: is an alternative to shots which involves taking gradually increasing doses of allergens in pill form
Sublingual immunotherapy: is also an alternative to shots which uses drops of allergens placed under the tongue
Disclaimer: Always talk to your doctor before starting or stopping any medications.
Common Questions
How do allergy blood tests help in diagnosing pet allergies?
Allergy blood tests measure the body's immune response to specific allergens, including pet dander. These tests involve taking a blood sample from the patient and exposing it to various potential allergens. If the blood sample shows changes in markers or proteins associated with an immune response after exposure to pet dander, it indicates the presence of a pet allergy. Allergy blood tests provide valuable insights into allergic conditions and can assist individuals in managing their allergies and reducing symptoms.
What is allergy skin testing and how does it help identify pet allergies?
Allergy skin testing is a method used by allergists to determine what substances are causing allergies in individuals. In the context of pet allergies, skin testing can be used to identify if someone is allergic to pet dander. During the test, small amounts of allergens, including pet dander, are applied to the skin through pricking or scratching. If a person is allergic to pet dander, they may develop a localized reaction at the test site, indicating their sensitivity to the allergen.
How can allergy symptoms be decreased?
To decrease allergy symptoms, it is important to reduce exposure to the allergen causing them, which in this case is pet dander. Minimizing contact with pet dander by keeping pets away from certain areas, regularly cleaning and vacuuming, and using air purifiers can help decrease the amount of allergens in the environment and subsequently alleviate allergy symptoms.
Why do some people have dander sensitivities and experience allergic reactions?
Some individuals have dander sensitivities because their bodies see pet dander as a threat. When the immune system identifies pet dander as an allergen, it produces antibodies to fight against it. This immune response, which is meant to protect the body, results in the allergic reactions experienced by those with dander sensitivities.
What is pet dander and why does it cause allergy symptoms?
Pet dander refers to the dead skin cells that pets constantly shed. While this shedding is a sign of a healthy animal, it can cause issues for those with dander sensitivities. Allergies occur when the body perceives pet dander as a foreign substance and produces antibodies to attack it. This autoimmune response leads to the symptoms we know as allergic reactions.
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From dust mites to pet dander
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