Allergist dispelled myths about animal allergies

Pet allergies can develop even after years of living together with an animal. On March 3, Naira Polyakova, an allergist-immunologist, pediatrician, pediatric allergist-immunologist, and expert doctor at the Semeynaya clinic network, told Izvestia about the causes, symptoms, and modern treatment methods.

According to the expert, an allergic reaction does not always occur in childhood. The immune system can come into contact with an allergen for a long time without pronounced manifestations, and then form hypersensitivity. This process is called sensitization. It can be triggered by hormonal changes, chronic stress, previous infections, as well as relocation and climate change.

As the doctor noted, there is currently a widespread myth that an allergy occurs specifically to wool, but the reaction develops to proteins contained in saliva, skin scales and secretions of animals.

"In cats, the main allergen is Fel d1, in dogs it is Can f1. These proteins are microscopic, easily spread through the air, settle on furniture, textiles and remain indoors for months. Wool only tolerates the allergen. Therefore, it is important to understand that "hypoallergenic animals" do not exist — this is a common myth," the doctor said.

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As Polyakova noted, symptoms may appear immediately after contact or after several hours. These include redness and itching of the eyes, runny nose, sneezing, coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, itchy skin and urticaria. If shortness of breath increases or bronchospasm occurs, consult a doctor.

"It is impossible to completely eliminate the allergen at home. With severe asthma or frequent seizures, doctors may recommend parting with the animal for the sake of patient safety," the specialist added.

Polyakova also stressed that to reduce contact, it is recommended to use air purifiers, carry out regular wet cleaning, keep the animal out of the bedroom, use anti-allergenic covers, wash hands after contact and regularly take care of the pet. In case of severe course of the disease, separation from the animal may be recommended, the allergist concluded.

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On March 1, Olga Gromadina, an allergist and immunologist, candidate of medical Sciences, chief specialist of the Semeynaya clinic network, said that flowering plants and high levels of pollen in the air can cause not only a runny nose, but also more severe allergic reactions, which is especially dangerous for people with bronchial asthma. The allergist emphasized that you should seek medical help immediately at the first symptoms of an allergy.

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