How Can I Tell If I’m Allergic To My Dog? Recognizing The Common Signs

What Are The Signs That I’m Allergic To My Dog?

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Most people have pretty mild symptoms, but some people can have really severe allergic reactions to dogs. As you may expect, these symptoms are the most obvious immediately after being exposed to a dog. A few of the most common signs of dog allergies include:

• Swelling and itching of the nose or around the eyes after touching a dog or being near a dog
• Redness of the skin, particularly in areas where you have been licked by a dog, or on the hands or body after you touch a dog
• Coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath when you’re near a dog
• A rash on the neck, face, or chest
• Severe asthma attacks (in people who also suffer from asthma)
  

Eczema, a painful inflammation of the skin, may also occur, though this is more common in children than it is in adults. If you notice any of the above symptoms after being near your dog, you may be allergic.

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How Can I Deal With Dog Allergies? Our Recommended Steps

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Your dog is important to you, but you also deserve to live a life free of the symptoms of allergies. Luckily for you, it’s usually possible to treat dog allergies and minimize their effects without having to re-home your pup. 

• Get an official diagnosis – First, you should visit Premier Allergy & Asthma for a consultation with our allergists. This will help you confirm your diagnosis, and the severity of your allergies. We can also test to see which allergens are causing your reaction. Pet dander (dead skin), saliva, and urine can all cause allergic reactions, and understanding which one is affecting you can help you take steps to deal with the symptoms.‍
• Explore medication for symptom relief – There are a lot of antihistamines and other over-the-counter and prescription medications that may help you with your dog allergy symptoms. Your allergist at Premier Allergy & Asthma can help you explore your options.
• Lifestyle changes – For example, you can set up a “dog-free” zone like the bedroom, where your dog is not allowed, or you can clean curtains, couches, carpets, and other dander-attracting surfaces more frequently to reduce allergens. HEPA air filters for pet dander can also help.
• Frequent grooming and dog care – Bathing your dog weekly can help reduce dander buildup on their fur and in your home. Regularly brushing your dog outdoors can also be a helpful way to remove loose fur and dander that otherwise would build up in your home.

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Get The Help You Need From Premier Allergy & Asthma!

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Except in the most severe cases, it’s completely possible to come up with a strategy to live with a dog, even if you have allergies. And if you need help in Central Ohio, Premier Allergy & Asthma is here for you. Contact us now to schedule an appointment, and get the assistance you need to control your dog allergies.