Pet Allergy

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional may suspect a pet allergy based on your symptoms, a physical examination of your nose, and your responses to questions. A lighted instrument may be used to examine the lining of your nose. If you have a pet allergy, the lining may appear swollen, pale, or discolored.

Allergy skin test
An allergy skin test can help identify the specific allergen. Tiny amounts of purified allergen extracts, including animal proteins, are pricked into the skin, usually on the forearm or upper back. The skin is checked for reactions after 15 minutes. A discolored, itchy bump indicates an allergy. Side effects, such as itching and changes in skin color, usually resolve within 30 minutes.

Blood test
If a skin test is not suitable due to a skin condition or certain medications, a blood test may be used to measure specific allergy-causing antibodies. This test can also indicate sensitivity to the allergen.

Treatment

The first step in managing pet allergies is minimizing exposure to the allergy-causing animal. Complete avoidance may be difficult because pet allergens can be transported on clothing or found in public spaces.

Allergy medicines
A healthcare professional may recommend medicines to relieve symptoms:

• Antihistamines reduce chemicals in the immune system that cause allergic reactions, relieving itching, sneezing, and runny nose. Examples include nasal sprays like azelastine and olopatadine, tablets such as fexofenadine, loratadine, cetirizine, and levocetirizine, and prescription options like desloratadine.
• Corticosteroid nasal sprays reduce swelling and control symptoms. Options include fluticasone, mometasone, triamcinolone, and prescription ciclesonide.
• Decongestants shrink nasal tissues to improve breathing. Oral decongestants may raise blood pressure and are not recommended for people with high blood pressure, glaucoma, or cardiovascular disease. Nasal sprays should not be used for more than three days consecutively.
• Leukotriene modifiers, such as montelukast, block immune system chemicals and may be prescribed if nasal sprays or antihistamines are not suitable. Side effects can include headache, fever, or mood changes.

Other treatments
• Immunotherapy. Allergy shots expose the immune system to small doses of the allergen over time, gradually increasing the dose during a 4- to 6-month period. Maintenance shots are given every four weeks for 3 to 5 years. This treatment is used when other options are insufficient.
• Nasal irrigation. A neti pot or squeeze bottle can flush mucus and allergens from the sinuses using a saline solution. Contaminant-free water must be used, and devices should be rinsed and air-dried after each use.