How Long Do Dog Allergy Symptoms Last in Humans?

If you're one of the millions of Americans with dog allergies, you may be wondering how long do dog allergy symptoms last. The good news is that there are some things you can do to lessen the severity and duration of your allergy symptoms. I should know – I've been dealing with dog allergies my whole life.

Pet Allergies Symptoms and Causes

How long do dog allergy symptoms last? If you're sneezing and wheezing, it might be time to see a doctor about your allergies. Allergies are caused by your immune system's reaction to a foreign substance, such as pollen, pet dander, or dust mites. Treatment options include medication and immunotherapy.

Dog Allergy Symptoms

Dog allergies are caused by the proteins in the dog’s fur, skin, and bodily fluids.

All dogs are capable of producing allergies, but studies haven’t shown whether some breeds are more or less likely to cause allergic reactions. Levels of pet dander (the main cause of indoor allergies) are higher in rooms where pets are allowed.

Dogs can bring dust and pollen into the home on their fur, which can cause allergy symptoms in some people. However, it is important to note that people are usually allergic to dust or pollen, not the dog itself.

Understanding Dog Allergies

Allergic triggers are substances that are known to cause allergic reactions in some people.

The main allergen in dogs comes from their saliva, but dander is also thought to contain allergens. The amount of allergen that a dog sheds will vary depending on their breed.

Allergic reactions to dogs are one of the most common triggers for asthmatic and hay fever symptoms.

How Long Do Dog Allergy Symptoms Last?

If you have a cat or dog allergy, you may experience symptoms of sneezing, a runny nose, or itchy eyes right away or after a few days.

If you have any of the following symptoms, you may be experiencing an allergic reaction: chest tightness, wheezing, trouble breathing, congestion, coughing, eczema, facial pressure or pain, hives, watery eyes, skin rash, swelling that looks blue under your eyes.

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

If you have had any of these allergy-related problems for more than two weeks, you should see a doctor.

Minimize Contact

There are a few things you can do to reduce your exposure to allergens and consequently your symptoms. One is to cordon off your bedroom, bed, and other personal areas so that the dog cannot come into contact with these spaces.

Another helpful measure is to make sure that you bathe your dog regularly and keep their hair clean so that dander and other allergens are not able to build up and cause irritation.

It's important to take steps to minimize your exposure to allergens, and one way to do that is by not allowing your dog into certain areas of your home. This will help reduce the amount of dander in these areas.

Testing for Dog Allergies

If you think you may have an allergy to dog dander, it’s important to see your doctor for RAST (allergen-specific immunoglobulin E) or SPT (skin-prick) testing.

How to Prevent Dog Allergies

The best way to avoid dog allergies is to not own a pet.

If you're considering adopting or buying a pet, it's important to make sure you don't have any allergies to pets. Once you've committed, there's no turning back!

If you have already adopted a pet, then there are steps you can take to avoid having to give them up. These include taking precautions around the house and using medications.

If you have allergies but plan on welcoming a furry friend to your household, choose a dog breed that typically causes fewer allergy attacks.

If you're someone who suffers from allergies, there are a few different procedures that can help. Allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, can help to lessen the severity of your allergies over time.

Allergy skin tests can help identify what you're allergic to. And if you have oral allergy syndrome, which is when your body mistakes certain proteins for pollen, there are steps you can take to avoid triggering your allergies.

Eczema is another condition that can be related to allergies, and it's important to manage it properly to keep your skin healthy.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

Do Children with Allergies Have to Give Up Their Pets?

No, they don't have to give up their pets. There are many things you can do to reduce your child's exposure to pet allergens and make living with a pet possible.

First, talk to your child's doctor about what you can do to reduce your child's exposure to pet allergens. You may be able to use medication or other treatments to help control your child's symptoms.

Second, take steps to reduce the number of pet allergens in your home. Keep pets out of your child's bedroom and off furniture. Vacuum regularly and wash beddings and clothing that comes into contact with pets often.

Third, make sure your child does not come into contact with other people's pets. If you know someone with a pet, ask them not to bring it over to your house.

Common Pet Allergies

Your immune system protects you against infection by constantly scanning your body for intruders, like bacteria or viruses. If it detects anything harmful, it produces proteins called antibodies to fight off the infection.

Sometimes, the immune system makes a mistake and attacks something that is not harmful -- like your pet.

The most common pet allergies include:

• Dogs and cats: Your pets aren't the cause of your allergies. It's what's trapped in their fur, Saliva, sweat, pee, and dander can also trigger allergies. A pet’s hair can also trap and accumulate other environmental pollutants, such as dust and tree or grass particles, which can make you cough and wheeze.
• Small rodents and rabbits: While their small stature may be deceiving, the microscopic hair, dandruff, and spit of rodents can cause allergic reactions. Rodents like rats, guinea pigs, and rabbits have pee that can contain allergens that can trigger allergies in some people. These substances are released in the air as your pets move around their cages or their beds.
• Birds: Dust mites that live in birds’ feathers are one of the most common allergens. Bird droppings also contain allergens that can set off allergies.
• Horses: In rare cases, the allergens in horses' hair or saliva can be deadly. This is especially dangerous for children.

Find a Hypoallergenic Breed

Choosing the right breed can also help. If you're looking for a less allergenic breed, consider one with a coat or fur that doesn't shed as much. Remember, it's possible to live with a dog even if you have allergies, as long as you have a plan for managing allergens. The right breed can make all the difference.

Conclusion

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how long do dog allergy symptoms last. However, by taking some simple steps to reduce your exposure to allergens and using over-the-counter or prescription medications as needed, you can help lessen the severity and duration of your symptoms.