Symptoms of Animal Dander Allergy

If you fight year-round skin and respiratory symptoms, you may be allergic to your pet's dander. Dander allergies are caused by a hypersensitivity to the proteins found in an animal's skin flakes, known as dander. These skin flakes are regularly shed when your pet scratches and licks himself. While vacuuming and cleaning frequently may help with your symptoms, you may need to visit an allergist for a more comprehensive treatment plan.

Respiratory Symptoms

One of the most common body responses to dander sensitivity is respiratory symptoms. Itchy eyes, runny nose, congestion, sinus pressure, coughing, sore/scratchy throat, wheezing and chest tightness may all be your body's way of reacting to the proteins found in your pet's skin flakes.

While most dander-related respiratory symptoms are merely a nuisance, they can become dangerous in severely allergic people. Dander allergies can, at worst, cause breathing problems, airway blockage and even anaphylactic shock. Anaphylaxis is a "whole-body" reaction to an allergen. Symptoms include eyelid, throat, tongue and airway swelling; overwhelming anxiety; rapid pulse and even heart arrhythmia. Anaphylaxis can be fatal if not treated immediately.

Skin Symptoms

Your skin is a gateway to your body's systems, and skin conditions usually indicate an exterior reaction to an internal threat. Hives, itchy patches, severe redness, eczema and dermatitis may all be related to a hypersensitivity to dander. You may have these symptoms constantly, or you may find that you break out when your pet rubs against you, licks you or scratches you. Either way, it could mean that you're allergic to the proteins in your pet's skin flakes or saliva.

While mild skin symptoms may clear up with an over-the-counter antihistamine like Benadryl, more severe skin conditions may require steroid or antibiotic creams. Consult your physician for remedies for persistent, dander-related skin symptoms.

Additional Symptoms

Although dander allergies typically show themselves in respiratory and local skin reactions, you may have other symptoms. These may include dizziness, fatigue, muscle pain, frequent headaches, diarrhea, nausea, gastrointestinal pain and lethargy. If you believe that any of these symptoms may be related to your pet, consult your physician for treatment.

Prevention

The only way to truly prevent dander allergies is to steer clear of offending animals. This may mean removing your pet from the house, or just closing off your bedroom or work space to avoid the buildup of pet dander. Before you decide to relocate your furry friend, however, consider seeing an allergist for a definitive diagnosis of your symptoms. You may find that you are allergic to dust or other environmental agents instead.

Treatment

Treatment for dander allergies ranges from over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines, decongestants, eye drops and nose sprays to regular immunotherapy injections and steroid treatments. After conducting a battery of allergy tests, your physician will recommend the most effective course of care.

Remember to keep a current history of your symptoms and complaints so your practitioner can best diagnose potential dander allergies.

Resources

• Visit the Mayo Clinic's Allergy Treatment Center