An allergy is a reaction of the body’s immune system to certain substances. It can occur on animal hair, dust, insect bites, medicines and pollen. In some cases, allergy symptoms are mild and you may not even realize that you are suffering from this disease. Allergies to pets may not show up right away. A person can live with an animal for several days, or maybe several years, before it manifests itself.
Symptoms of a pet allergy may include: rash, itchy eyes, difficulty breathing, hoarse voice, inflammation of the eyes and nose. But since these symptoms are very similar to those of colds, it is difficult to diagnose allergies at the initial stage. There is an opinion of scientists that if a child under two years of age has been in contact with pets, then in the future he will not be allergic to pets. That is, when the immune system is just being formed in a small child, and he has already had contact with pets, then in the future the presence of pets will already be habitual for the body.
Allergy is diagnosed by a doctor. First, skin tests are performed. To do this, the alleged allergen is injected under the skin. Then the reaction of the body is observed, and depending on the result, the allergy is confirmed or excluded. Treatment is through medication. They have a decongestant, antihistamine effect and contain corticosteroids. In the case when preventive measures and drug therapy do not give a positive effect, then immunotherapy is used.
As a precaution, avoid contact with pets. In general, before you get a pet at home, you need to call a veterinarian at home or visit a veterinary clinic for a comprehensive examination of the animal. If this is not possible, then you need to clearly limit the pet’s habitat. You can’t lie on a bed or sofa, don’t let him into the bedroom and forbid him to jump on the table. To prevent disease, it is necessary to remove all carpets from the walls and floors. They can accumulate animal dander. You should also avoid being with animals in a confined space.
It will also help to maintain personal hygiene, that is, the mandatory washing of hands after contact with pets.
