If you’re an animal lover that is suffering from pet allergy symptoms, maybe it’s time to visit a St. Louis MO allergist. Many people have found relief for their allergy symptoms and sensitivities by seeing an allergist. If you are suffering from sinus and nasal congestion, asthma, skin rashes, a runny nose or excessive sneezing, or red, watery, or itching eyes, a MO allergist will be able to help you find relief. Here are some recommendations that an allergist might recommend:
- Many pet allergies respond well to taking FDA approved antigens in liquid form placed under the tongue. Allergy drops have been found effective in providing relief to patients suffering from dog, cat, gerbil, hamster, or rabbit allergies.
- If your pet lives inside your home with you, here are some recommendations on activities that might lessen your allergic symptoms: First, wear a dust mask when you vacuum, and get a HEPA filter vacuum (high efficiency particulate air). Second, add a HEPA filter or air filter to your HVAC, and make sure the filter is on for 4 hours or more every day. Third, remove carpeting if you can. Bare tile or hardwood floors and walls are best for allergy sufferers. If you can’t remove the carpeting, steam clean them frequently. Fourth, remove animal allergen particles from the air by using a room electrostatic filter. Fifth, use a filtering material like cheesecloth to cover your bedroom vents. Sixth, have your pets thoroughly brushed outside as often as possible to reduce dander. Weekly pet washing has not been proven to be of value in the reduction of allergy symptoms. Seventh, the allergic person’s bedroom should be off limits to their pets, and also the bedroom should be thoroughly and completely cleaned.
- Many people benefit from allergy shots (immunotherapy), antihistamine pills like Benadryl, and antihistamine and steroidal nose sprays. A good St. Louis MO allergist will utilize a combination of approaches – immunotherapy, updated housecleaning methods, and medical control of symptoms, to find out the best course of action for their patient.
- Don’t feel alone. Studies have found that over 10 million pet owners are somewhat or highly allergic to their pets. Education is important to understand what can be done to reduce or eliminate allergy symptoms. Brush your pet at least once a week. Brushing spreads natural oils through their skin, loosens dander and dead hair, and helps to get rid of dirt. Brushing also helps to prevent matting, which is a primary cause of skin infections. Make sure to choose a brush made especially to handle either fine or coarse hair. Of course, if possible, the person who has the allergies should not be doing the grooming and brushing.
- Allergy shots should be considered if you are having allergic reactions for more than 3 months every year. Shots contain a minute portion of pet dander or whatever it is you’re allergic to. Irritation around the injection site is common and usually disappears within 4 to 8 hours.