If you have a pet allergy, you may notice your allergy symptoms grow more severe in the fall. Here’s our complete guide to pet allergies: what causes them, why they’re worse this time of year and how to manage them.
Dander, Saliva or Urine
An allergen is any substance that is known to cause allergy symptoms. In the case of animals, the substance you’re reacting to is probably dander. Dander is a flaky, light substance that animals shed, made up primarily of their dead skin cells. You can come into contact with dander either by touch after petting your furry friend or sitting on a dander-covered sofa, or by inhaling it, as these light flakes can easily be knocked airborne and float through the air.
In rarer cases, proteins in animal saliva and urine are the offending allergen. Saliva can stick to carpets, bedding, furniture and clothing and can even become airborne, like dander, after it dries.
Why Pet Allergies Are Worse in the Fall
Pet allergies ramp up in the fall for two main reasons. The first is that we’re spending more time indoors, which means we’re probably spending more time with our pets. Almost one-third of Americans own a pet, which means they all go home to a house with pet dander and proteins present. As temperatures cool and outdoor attractions close for the cold months, you’re probably spending more time with animals.
The second reason is that many animals, particularly cats and dogs, shed their summer coats at this time. Even indoor pets are acutely aware of the season change and will shed their light summer coat in exchange for a heavier, warmer winter coat. This increase in materials shedding from the animal gives dander a higher chance to float off the animal’s body and into your airways.
How to Manage Pet Allergies
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take at home to relieve your worst symptoms while living with your furry friend.
- Brush and bathe your pet. Clean off any excess dander or saliva and help them with shedding their summer coat by brushing them with a specialty pet brush and bathing them with soap and water. If possible, ask a family member without allergies to do this, as you’ll probably trigger your symptoms by being in such close contact with your pet’s body. Dry your pet thoroughly, especially if it has a long coat, otherwise water can get trapped in their fur and irritate their skin, leading them to scratch and scatter allergens everywhere.
- Clean your home. Vacuum, sweep, dust and mop frequently to prevent dander buildup. Wash all bedding and linens regularly, as well, especially if your pet sleeps in your bed. You may also consider a HEPA vacuum cleaner, which is very effective at removing allergens and other tiny particles from surfaces.
- Use medications. Over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines and decongestants, can help relieve your worst symptoms if you have an allergic reaction.
We at Willamette ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery love our pets, and we know you love yours, too. Don’t let annoying allergy symptoms prevent you from enjoying the companionship of your furry friend. If you’ve tried at-home and over-the-counter remedies to no avail, consider seeking out the help of an allergist for a long-term care plan. We are knowledgeable in building allergy plans tailored to your needs. Contact us today to learn more.
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