According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, about 10 percent of people have animal allergies, and many of these involve pets. In individuals with asthma, this rate rises to 20 to 30 percent. Since an allergic reaction is an overreaction of the immune system to something that normally should not be attacked, it can cause unwanted respiratory symptoms in people who develop pet allergies.
Causes
Contrary to the belief of many, pet allergies aren't typically caused by pet fur or feathers. Most allergens from pets come in the form of pet dander, saliva and urine, explains the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Dander is made up of secreted proteins from skin cells, which can stick to household surfaces and travel through the air to continue provoking an allergic reaction even after the animal is removed from the vicinity.
Symptoms
Most of the symptoms of a pet allergy show up as respiratory issues. According to MayoClinic.com, these symptoms include runny and itchy nose, congestion, sneezing and postnasal drip. In addition, pet allergy sufferers may experience facial pressure, coughing, swollen skin under the eyes, wheezing, skin rashes and trouble sleeping. Individuals with asthma may have an asthma attack upon contact with pet allergens.
Prevention
Prevention methods for avoiding pet allergies begin with keeping the allergic individual away from pet allergens. In some cases, this may mean removing the pet from the home, but if this is not possible or undesirable, confining the animal to certain rooms and frequent, thorough cleaning of the home may help. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, an air purifier with a HEPA filter can be used to reduce pet allergens in the home. The filter should be run for four or more hours daily and the use of an air purifier should be in addition to, not in place of, keeping the home as clean and free of pet dander as possible.
Treatment
People who cannot manage pet allergies through prevention methods or who encounter problems when out of the home may consider using antihistamines, decongestants or asthma medication for times when they will be exposed to animal allergens. Some people may also choose to try allergy shots, explains the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. These shots sensitize a person to the allergens over a period of time, making the body less likely to respond inappropriately when it encounters them. Shots are given weekly for up to three years.
Considerations
Getting rid of the animal causing the allergy is widely considered the primary method of treating pet allergies. However, many people have extremely strong emotional attachment to their pets and would not consider giving them up as a valid solution for taming pet allergies. Fortunately, for many people symptoms can be lessened using available prevention and treatment options, and the remaining symptoms are frequently considered mild enough that the person chooses to live with the allergy rather than give up a beloved pet. This decision can only be made by the pet owner, and people with pet allergies should strongly consider what level of discomfort they are willing to live with in order to keep pets.
