Dander is a particle made up of skin cells or dried saliva. It is commonly found in household animals such as cats and dogs. Pet allergies are due to the dander, not hair or fur. Cat dander allergies are more common than dog dander allergies. Excellent cleaning practices may not reduce dander enough to prevent allergy symptoms. Dander particles are small and can easily adhere wherever they land. Symptoms of dander allergies impact the nasal passages, airways and sometimes the skin.
Nasal Irritation
Dander can irritate the nasal passages. Once irritated, the nasal passages can become inflamed and produce a variety of symptoms. Like seasonal allergies, an individual may have a cough, frequent sneezing, runny nose and eyes, itching in the nose or throat, and darkness under the eyes. Children will exhibit the same symptoms but are likely to rub their eyes and nose from the irritation.
Lung Irritation
Like the nasal passages, the lungs can become irritated and inflamed by a pet dander allergy. Dander allergies impact the lungs by making it difficult to breathe. An individual may experience an allergy-induced asthma attack when he or she comes in contact with pet dander. Someone with asthma may experience a heightened level of breathing difficulty. Some individuals may feel pain in the chest or even a sense of tightness. Wheezing and prolonged coughing are also signs of lung irritation. If breathing becomes too difficult, seek medical attention. Sleeping may be interrupted by pet allergies when the lungs are inflamed.
Skin Irritation
Pet dander allergies can cause the skin to become red with hives. Hives are known to itch. Prolonged contact with a pet or the pet dander can cause substantial discomfort. Scratching the hives can lead to bleeding and infection of the wounds. This is especially true for children that cannot help but scratch the hives. Avoid scratching to lessen the skin irritation. Assist children in soothing the itching, or cover their hands with mittens to prevent scratching.
