Managing Asthma and Allergies with Pets

The presence of pets in the home may present challenges for those with allergies or asthma. Discovering that you have pet allergies may be disheartening, but it is possible to share a home with a beloved pet, even if you suffer from allergies or asthma. That said, it is important to understand that this requires careful management and attention to detail.

Here are a few steps you can take to minimize allergy or asthma triggers while living with a pet.

Identify your triggers

The first thing to remember is that not all allergens are pet-related and may be caused by other sources, such as dust or pollen. For instance, your pet may come in contact with an allergy-inducing pollen while on a walk and may then proceed to deposit it on the carpet, couch or other high-contact surfaces.

Get an allergy test to determine whether you’re allergic to your pet. Once you’re certain your pet is triggering your allergic reactions, you can take steps to reduce these triggers in the home.

Consider your treatment options

Immunotherapy, antihistamine nasal sprays, and antihistamine tablets are some viable treatments to reduce your allergic response to your pet. You will likely have to use a combination of methods to minimize triggers – this may mean a combination of allergy shots or immunotherapy, symptom-reducing medicine, as well as keeping your house clean.

If you still have a bad bout of allergies despite your best efforts, you can virtually access 24 hour urgent care through a reputed telehealth provider.

Clean your home regularly

Pet allergies are usually triggered by dander which is the animal’s dead skin flakes that can linger in the air and collect on furniture and other surfaces. Some people may also be allergic to the pet’s dried saliva or urine.

One way to prevent allergic reactions to your pet is to reduce the number of allergens in the home. This includes regular vacuuming, dusting, and mopping, as well as ensuring windows and vents are sealed. You may also need to wash bedding, blankets, and soft toys regularly. Try using an air purifier to remove any airborne allergens.

Create allergen-free spaces in the home

Everyone loves to cuddle and play with their pet, but allergies mean you sometimes need a time-out.

Consider keeping the pet out of certain areas of the home, especially your bedroom. You may need to train your pet to steer clear of the room. Try to ensure the room door remains closed and locked even when you’re not home. Use a HEPA vacuum cleaner to ensure the room remains dander-free, and change your bed linen frequently.

The bottom line

Overall, it is possible to manage pet ownership with allergies and asthma. However, it requires a combination of steps, such as reducing allergens in the home and taking medications as advised by a doctor.

With careful management, pet ownership can be an enjoyable experience for people with allergies and asthma.