Fifteen to 30 percent of people who suffer from allergies are allergic to cats and dogs, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, or AAFA. With the pet population in the United States at more than 100 million, it can be difficult for individuals to avoid exposure to dander. People with a dander allergy are allergic to harmless proteins that collect in the dander. The immune system has a hypersensitivity to these proteins and causes allergy symptoms. An allergy to pet dander causes various chemical reactions in the body that result in nasal allergies, asthma and eye allergies.
Nasal Allergies
One of the most common allergies from dander is a nasal allergy, according to the American College of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology. One of the reasons pet dander causes nasal allergies is because the particles from the dander can become lodged in the sinus cavity, causing constant irritation. The sinus cavity becomes irritated and inflamed, leading to sinus pressure, postnasal drip and facial pain. Common symptoms of a nasal allergy are excessive sneezing, congestion and nasal discharge. Nasal allergies from pet dander are treated with nasal irrigation, antihistamines and avoiding exposure to dander.
Asthmatic Reactions
According to the AAFA, pet dander can induce asthmatic reactions, such as wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. The lungs become inflamed and restricted, causing the patient to lose the ability to breathe normally. These symptoms develop within 15 to 30 minutes after exposure. People with asthma can experience a severe asthma attack from exposure to dog or cat dander and should seek medical attention immediately if unable to breathe. FamilyDoctor.org recommends getting rid of house pets if someone has an allergy to them. Reduce pet dander in the home by bathing the animal often, using allergy-resistant bedding and using a home air filtration system.
Eye Allergy
Eye irritation is a result of a dander allergy reaction, according to Penn State University. The eyes become watery, red and itchy. This condition is called allergic conjunctivitis and can lead to an eye infection if not properly treated. The area around the eyes can become swollen, developing black-and-blue color, referred to as "allergy shiners." An eye allergy is treated with antihistamine eye drops and using a cold compress over the eyes to reduce itching and inflammation. Talk to a doctor if pus or mucus develops in the eyes.
