Allergy Relief: Handling Cat Allergies

There are about six to ten million people in the United States that have some form of cat allergy. There are various causes the cat allergies and symptoms to watch for with this type of allergy. This can be controlled though with the right methods of handling an allergy.

The most common allergens involving a cat allergy come from the saliva and sweat that the cat produces. These fluids contain a protein known as “Fel d 1,” which is a carbohydrate structure. This is an allergen that creates the symptoms associated with this type of allergy. This is a type of protein that is smaller than that of mold or pollen. This makes for very powerful allergens because of their small sizes. In fact, they are more likely to create an allergic reaction than other types of allergens.

“Fel d 1” is capable of going through nasal passages and other parts of the lungs. This will result in allergy symptoms and asthma attacks. These allergens are airborne and can easily move around in the air. In fact, when the cat finishes cleaning itself with its tongue the allergens will be deposited onto its fur. The dried saliva will be able to float off of the cat’s fur over the course of time.

The allergen will also be able to attach itself to various parts of the home. This includes furniture, walls and other places that the cat goes through. Even if the cat has not been in an area for years the allergens can still remain in the home. This means that completely cleaning the home is one of the best things to do for handling an allergy like this.

One of the most important parts of handling an allergy like this involves knowing the symptoms of the allergy. A cat allergy is capable of creating an impact on the eyes, ears, throat and other parts of the body. The reactions will generally take place about fifteen to forty minutes after the exposure to the allergens take place. Some allergies could even take days for them to fully make an impact.

There are various symptoms involved that will create an impact on the person who has an allergy to cats. Swollen or itchy eyes, a runny nose or nasal congestion, sneezing and reddened skins are common symptoms. Stuffed or itchy ears, post nasal drip and a sore throat are also common. In some cases bronchitis can occur.

Handling an allergy can be done though. Using good allergy relief and avoidance products around the home will be able to take care of the allergens. Having good home ventilation will help, and using an air conditioner during humid times of the year can help. Having a High Efficiency Particulate Air filter in the home can also help.

If these symptoms cannot be eliminated easily then it will be best to talk with a doctor. Prescription drugs or immunotherapy can be used in the most severe cases.

A cat allergy can be tough to bear with. However, by using the right methods of handling an allergy it will be easy to take care of the problem. With the strength of the allergens a cat products it is important to handle the problem.