Understanding dog allergies: symptoms and treatment

What are dog allergies

A dog allergy is a common condition caused by the body's immune response to proteins found in dog hair, dander, saliva and urine. It is important to understand that dog allergies can manifest with different symptoms and degrees of severity.

Causes of dog allergies

The main cause of dog allergies is that a person has a genetic predisposition to allergic reactions. Some studies have also shown that the risk of children developing allergies is increased if one or both parents suffer from allergies. Exposure to allergens such as dog hair, dander, and saliva can provoke an allergic reaction.

Types of dog allergies

Dog allergies can be divided into two main groups: direct and indirect. Direct dog allergies occur through direct contact with the pet and its allergens, while indirect allergies occur through indirect contact with allergens, such as through clothing, furniture or air. In both cases, the symptoms may be the same.

Symptoms of dog allergies

A dog allergy can manifest itself with a variety of symptoms. The main signs of dog allergies include respiratory, skin, eye and systemic manifestations.

1. How do dog allergies manifest in the respiratory system? Symptoms may include itching and stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, shortness of breath and bronchospasm. Respiratory manifestations may be the same in an adult and a child.
2. Skin symptoms include hives, itching, redness, rash, and swelling. Skin manifestations may also be similar in children and adults.
3. Eye symptoms: itching, lacrimation, redness, and swelling of the eyelids. These manifestations may occur in both adults and children.
4. Systemic symptoms: anaphylactic shock requiring immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis of dog allergy

Diagnosing a dog allergy begins with seeing an allergist, who will perform an examination and gather a medical history. The doctor will determine what tests need to be taken to confirm or rule out the diagnosis.

A dog allergy test may take the form of a skin test or a blood test for specific antibodies (IgE). These tests can help the doctor determine if contact with dog hair, saliva, or dander is causing an allergic reaction.

Treating dog allergies

If a dog allergy is diagnosed, treatment may include the use of antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids and immunotherapy.

Antihistamine tablets or syrups (cetirizine, loratadine, fexofenadine, desloratadine, ebastine) are usually prescribed to relieve symptoms of dog allergies, such as itching, redness, sneezing and runny nose. Drugs in this group block the action of histamine, the substance that causes allergic reactions.

Nasal corticosteroids (fluticasone, mometasone, beclomethasone) in the form of nasal sprays can be used to relieve nasal congestion associated with dog allergies. They reduce inflammation and swelling of the nasal mucosa, making it easier to breathe.

Immunotherapy, also known as allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) or allergy vaccination, aims to gradually accustom the body to dog allergens. Your doctor may recommend this method of treatment if other methods have no effect. Immunotherapy can markedly improve the patient's condition and in some cases cure the dog allergy completely.

Preventing dog allergies

In order to prevent the development of dog allergies or to reduce the appearance of symptoms, preventive measures should be followed.

Regular cleaning of the home, airing of the room, frequent cleaning of floors and furniture, and hygienic care of the dog (bathing, hair clipping, brushing of teeth) will help reduce the concentration of allergens in the home environment.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Some dog breeds, such as the poodle, bichon frise, Irish water spaniel and others, are considered hypoallergenic. This means that they produce fewer allergens and are less likely to develop allergies. However, it is worth remembering that absolutely hypoallergenic breeds do not exist, and individual reactions to different breeds may be different.

In conclusion, we would like to point out that dog allergy is a serious disease that requires a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment. If you or your child have signs of a dog allergy, you should see an allergist for testing and further action. Prevention and timely treatment can help you manage your allergies and stay healthy.