For those with pet allergies, managing symptoms can sometimes feel like a choice between giving up their pet or staying healthy. Fortunately, professional pet allergy treatments are making it easier for people to keep cats, dogs and other animals without reducing their quality of life. If you believe you have a pet allergy, an Atlanta allergist can help you navigate the available testing and treatment options.
Can Pet Allergy Treatment Make Living With Pets Easier?
Pet allergy treatments can help you keep your pet by managing the underlying allergic response to proteins found in an animal’s dander, saliva and urine. With the following pet allergy management approaches, you’ll reduce the risk of severe and uncomfortable reactions.
How Pet Allergy Treatments Work
Pet allergies are immune system overreactions to allergens from cats and dogs, as well as small rodents, rabbits and other animals with fur, hair or feathers. Even birds may be the source of a pet allergy. When the immune system perceives a threat from proteins in pet dander, saliva or urine, it releases antibodies that trigger coughing, wheezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes and hives. Pet allergy treatments work by reducing the body’s allergic response to these allergens.
The Importance of Pet Allergy Testing
If you experience the common signs of pet allergies affecting children and adults, your allergist may recommend allergy testing. Skin prick or blood testing is used to identify the allergens that trigger a reaction, while ruling out possible alternatives such as pollen, dust mites or mold. Your allergist combines these test results with your medical history, family history of allergies, and any additional allergies or asthma to make an accurate diagnosis.
Common Pet Allergy Treatment Options
The appropriate pet allergy treatment plan will depend on factors like severity of symptoms and a person’s lifestyle. For some people, antihistamines can reduce sneezing and a runny nose. Nasal sprays control inflammation and congestion, while eye drops can help if you experience itchy or irritated eyes. Your allergist may recommend one or more medications that help you manage your pet allergy successfully.
Immunotherapy for Pet Allergies
Immunotherapy is a long-term treatment approach that can reduce symptoms and help people live more comfortably with their pets. With periodic allergy shots at your allergist’s office, the immune system is gradually exposed to increasing levels of the allergen. Over time, your body can become desensitized to typical levels of pet allergens.
Simple Pet Allergy Management Techniques
Along with these proven allergy treatments, you can also take simple steps to prevent allergic reactions. At-home strategies can include regularly cleaning your home to prevent pet dander buildup, and bathing and grooming your pets. Keeping your pets out of the bedroom will also reduce the likelihood of allergic responses at night.
Find Relief From a Pet Allergy at Our Atlanta-Area Centers
If contact with your pet is causing respiratory issues, skin reactions and other common symptoms, Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center is here to help. We provide expert pet allergy testing and treatment solutions at allergy treatment centers across the Atlanta area. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment.
