Have you ever hesitated to get a dog because you were worried that you or your child would be allergic to dogs? In fact, being allergic to dogs doesn't mean you have to give up intimate time with your dog. By knowing the symptoms and causes of allergies, taking proper precautions, and you can still live happily with your beloved dog.
1. Symptoms of allergies to dogs
Itchy eyes: This is one of the most common symptoms. After contact with your dog, your eyes may feel itchy or burning, and sometimes swollen. Coughing: Coughing symptoms occur even after spending time with a dog even if you don't have a cold or other respiratory problems. This can be due to an allergic reaction caused by your dog's dander or saliva. Skin problems: Skin allergies such as prickly heat, redness, swelling, and itching are also common reactions. This can be caused by allergens in your dog's hair, dander, or saliva. Dyspnea: In more severe cases, symptoms of dyspnea may occur, which are caused by irritation of the nasal mucosa. 2. Causes of allergies to dogs
Dog hair allergies: Dog hair itself is not an allergen, but they can carry substances such as dog dander, saliva, etc., which contain allergens. Dandruff allergy: Your dog's dandruff may contain allergens that can scatter into the air when in contact with your dog, causing an allergic reaction. Saliva allergies: Your dog's saliva can also contain allergens, which can trigger an allergic reaction if you have too close contact with your dog, such as kissing or cuddling. 3. How to alleviate the symptoms of allergies to dogs
Keep it clean: Keep your home clean, vacuum and sweep frequently, especially in areas where dogs often move around and where they sleep. Using an efficient air purifier can also help reduce allergens in the air. Bathe and groom your dog regularly: This can reduce your dog's dander and hair shedding, as well as reducing allergens in saliva. Avoid too close contact: Too close contact, such as kissing or hugging for long periods of time, increases the risk of allergies. Try to keep a certain distance and reduce direct contact. Pay attention to personal hygiene: Washing your hands after contact with your dog can reduce the spread of allergens. At the same time, pay attention to regular changes of clothing and bedding to keep them clean. Seek professional help: If the allergy symptoms are severe and affect your normal life, you can seek help from a doctor. Your doctor may be able to prescribe treatment options such as allergy medications and immunotherapy. 4. Tips for getting along well with your dog
Know your allergies: Know the symptoms and extent of your allergies and take appropriate precautions. If you have severe allergies to dogs, you may want to consider reducing your contact with dogs. Choose the right dog breed and size: Different breeds and sizes of dogs may carry different allergens, and choosing the right dog for your allergy can reduce the risk of allergies. Establish good hygiene habits: In addition to daily cleaning and hygiene, check and clean your dog's teeth, ears and other parts regularly to reduce allergens in saliva and dander. Keep an appropriate distance from your dog: Avoid too close contact, such as kissing and long cuddles. Keeping a certain distance can reduce the chance of direct contact with allergens. Enhance immunity: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating a reasonable diet, exercising moderately, and boosting immunity can help the body better resist allergic reactions. Know and follow your doctor's advice: If your dog's allergy symptoms are severe or interfere with your normal life, seek medical attention and follow your doctor's advice. Your doctor may be able to provide you with an effective treatment plan and management plan.
In conclusion, being allergic to dogs doesn't mean you have to give up intimate time with your dog. By understanding the symptoms and causes, taking proper precautions, and living a healthy lifestyle, you can still live happily with your beloved dog. Living in harmony with your dog requires joint efforts and understanding from both parties, and we hope these tips will bring you and your dog a better life experience.
Proofread by Liao Qing