Cat Allergy Symptoms Can Be Mild Or Severe

Cats are recognized as being one of the most allergenic animals currently kept as pets. A cat tends to carry allergens which are basically substances that can cause an allergic reaction. An allergy to cats is primarily an allergic reaction to cat glycoprotein which is released through the animals sebaceous glands. This secretion is primarily found within a cats skin, dander, and even their saliva. There are roughly ten million people who suffer from the troublesome symptoms of a cat allergy each year. With no cure currently available it's important to become aware of your own health so that you may effectively treat your allergies.

Allergies tend to be cumulative. What this means is once you suffer from one allergy you may suffer from others. And every time you have any reactions from the likes of mold, pollen and dust it will add to the overall symptoms. When a person adds a cat allergy into the mix of other allergies it has a tendency to make the reaction worse than suffering from one particular allergy. This is likely because everyone has a certain threshold that their body can tolerate. If an allergy suffering person reduces all of the bothersome allergens this may eventually diminish the total and possibly reduce the allergic reaction below your threshold. This would likewise make your allergies more bearable.

Common Symptoms Related To Cat Exposure

Some of the common symptoms include reddened areas upon your skin, red swollen and itchy eyes, and a runny nose. Nasal congestion is another common symptom along with sneezing, post nasasl drip, and even stuffed up ears. A more serious symptom of may include coughing, wheezing, and even reoccuring bronchitis. Cat allergy symptoms are portrayed in several different forms. However, some people may suffer only from one symptom while others will suffer from several symptoms at once. Why this happens is not clear to doctors at this time. Keep in mind that the cat allergy symptoms are quite similar to those symptoms of a common cold. For this reason you must get an allergy test to confirm your suspicions.

Cat allergies occur quickly and diminish just as fast. One may find it difficult to discover the cat allergy because of the quick reaction. Be aware that there are many other additional symptoms than those mentioned here. If you are experiencing any symptoms and currently have a cat in your household than you may have discoverd the source of your allergy.

What Can You Do About Them?

If you experience cat allergies there are several things you can do to diminish the symptoms. Desensitizing is a way to reduce your allergic reaction. Many people who have been allergic to cats over time eventually become immune to symptoms from their own cats. Many will still, however, suffer allergic reactions in varying intensity to cats other than their own. Be advised that desensitizing is not the most reliable treatment when considering to bring a cat into your home as a pet. In the end your allergy may become worse over time. Lowering your exposure is another way to treat your cat allergy. Regularly cleaning your home with a HEPA filter equipped vacuum cleaner as well as using an air purifier may also help reduce allergens floating withing in the air. Regular brushing of your cat will remove the loose hair that can become airborne. Another way to help treat your cat allergy is by regularly bathing your cat. Medications such as Zyrtec™ and Claritin™ are also available to those who suffer from cat allergy symptoms. The type of medication depends on the severity of your allergy symptoms as it comes in both the prescription and over the counter variety. Many symptoms can be treated effectively through over the counter medicine especially those containing antihistamines. This treatment option should only be explored after speaking with your doctor or allergist.

The bottom line is if you feel that you have a cat allergy seek the advice from your doctor. They will be able to advise you on the most effective relief option available today. There is always a method to treat even the most severe symptoms you will experience.