Dog Allergy Symptoms
Dog Allergy Symptoms: The Risks of Man’s Best Friend
Dogs may be man’s best friend but for some men (women and kids, too) that relationship isn’t as positive as it should be. When someone suffers from dog allergy symptoms, keeping a dog as a pet or even being around other people’s pets can be uncomfortable and sometimes down right dangerous.
Causes
Although many people believe dog allergy symptoms are triggered by contact with the dog’s fur, the fact is that most of these reactions are caused by pet dander. When the dog licks his fur, its saliva sticks to the fur and is carried on the fur when it leaves the dog through shedding or brushing. That saliva contains the proteins that trigger those dog allergy reactions.
Symptoms
If you suffer from one of these reactions, you may experience some or all of the following dog allergy symptoms:
• Itchy eyes
• Runny nose
• Red, itchy skin
• Skin rash
• Symptoms similar to asthma
Unfortunately, many people mistake these symptoms for another medical condition, such as a cold or asthma. But if the symptoms appear frequently or if you notice they begin after contact with a dog, then you may be suffering from dog allergy symptoms.
Diagnosis & Treatment
If you suspect you have dog allergies, you need to speak with a doctor who can do a skin test to determine if you have a reaction to animal dander. Once diagnosed, antihistamines can be used to treat the dog allergy symptoms.
Allergy Management
While most dog allergies are mild, some people can have severe reactions. For these people, carrying a medical card is essential. You need to let other people know when you can’t necessarily speak for yourself how to properly treat your condition and how to prevent further complications.