What are the signs of cat allergy

The main method of diagnosing a cat allergy is through special medical tests. A blood sample is taken from the patient to test for immunoglobulin E, as well as skin tests.

Cat allergy

Doctor of allergology (immunologist), candidate of medical sciences, member of Russian Association of Allergologists and Clinical Immunologists, member of European Academy of Allergology and Clinical Immunology (EAACI).

Judging by the number of complaints made to allergists, we can say with certainty that cat allergy in adults is a widespread phenomenon.

Many people mistakenly believe that allergies are caused by animal hair. But this opinion is mistaken. Wool is an allergen carrier, but it itself is safe. The allergen that causes allergies to cats in adults and children is cat protein, traces of which remain on all objects with which the animal has come into contact. Naturally, cat fur is a real "storehouse" of feline protein, which has caused the spread of not entirely accurate information about allergies to cat fur, which in fact is not the root cause of the disease.

The cleanliness of cats is more of a disadvantage for allergy sufferers in this case. Cats are constantly licking their fur, leaving their protein residue on it. This hair then ends up on furniture, walls, floor and clothing. A person prone to cat allergy, even unnoticed, comes into contact with this hair, and the result is an allergic reaction of the body. Moreover, with hypersensitivity, the reaction can occur even when communicating with a person on whose clothes or skin traces of cat protein are left.

Symptomatics

Let's look at how cat allergies manifest themselves. In fact, manifestations of an allergic reaction can be of different types.

These symptoms may be accompanied by general weakness and even a fever.

The intensity of the respiratory symptoms varies from person to person. For some, they appear after prolonged contact with the cat, while for others the attack may start literally at the appearance of the animal.

• The appearance of irritation and itching on the skin;
• burning and itching;
• Rashes, blisters and redness.

Skin symptoms are usually manifested by direct contact with the animal. If the allergic reaction is expressed only in this way, then the patient will simply minimize the risks of their manifestation – it is sufficient to exclude contact with representatives of the cat.

If the allergen enters the food, the symptoms can manifest themselves in this way – a general deterioration of the condition, urges to vomit and pain in the stomach area. In this case, it is also important not to delay a visit to the doctor, so that a specialist will be able to make the correct diagnosis as early as possible.

It should be noted that all these symptoms are not unique and may indicate the development of another disease. Therefore, accurate diagnosis and determination of the cause of the symptoms is key.

Only a doctor can accurately diagnose the disease. Do not delay the consultation-call us at +7 (495) 775-73-60

Are there any hypoallergenic cats?

The first question to answer is what exactly are you allergic to allergy in contact with a cat? The allergen Fel D1 is a protein that is excreted in the saliva, skin cells and urine. urine. It turns out that even if you get a hairless cat, such as a sphinx, this does not guarantee that allergic reaction.

However, there are certain criteria in choosing a pet that will help reduce the likelihood of allergies:

1. Animals with light-colored fur;
2. Small kittens produce fewer allergensThe males are less allergic than the males; therefore, this indicator will increase with age;
3. females are less allergenic than males;
4. early castration also reduces allergen production of allergens is also reduced ..

If we are to choose, it is better to choose hairless cats (sphynxes, Lycoys, Peterbalds) or cats with short curly hair (Cornish-raxes, Devon-raxes), because in these breeds allocation of allergens is somewhat reduced.

Measures to combat allergies

It should be remembered that allergies Each person has a different degree of allergy. When symptoms appear, for example, swellingand difficulty breathing, as well as less severe ones (coughing, oozing from eyes и nasal flowsIn the case of other symptoms (e.g., cough, nasal leakage, conjunctivitis, etc.), you should consult a physician for the selection of an individual treatment. However, in addition to the use of medicines, there are basic recommendations that can reduce the accumulation of of allergens in the environment and on the animal itself.

Individual hygiene is the main point of the rules. Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with the cat. Do not touch or bring your hands to your face immediately after contact with the animal.

Regular cleaning of the house. This item means Removing hair from surfaces with a vacuum cleaner, as well as doing wet mopping. The more often you do this work around the house, the less allergens will accumulate of allergens on surfaces.

Air purification. This may include both air ventilation and air filtration.

Taking care of your pet. It is recommended that you wash your pet about once a week, but you should consult your veterinarian before doing so. vetIt is important to choose a suitable cosmetic. If you have a furry animal, combing it out will avoid unnecessary accumulation of hair on other surfaces in the house.

Restrict access. If possible, close off access to the bedroom. Do not allow the pet on your bed or in places not meant for it. It is also worth mentioning that since 2020 there has been a food on the market which contains an additive that significantly reduces the production of Fel D1 protein in cats. These studies have been conducted for a long time and have scientific evidence, also tested with the participation of allergic people.

So, we conclude: hypoallergenic cats do not exist, but using specialized food and following some rules, you can keep the pet at home and minimize allergic symptoms. It is also worth remembering that with more serious manifestations allergies (swellingSwelling, shortness of breath, etc.) doctorThe only possible solution may be to give the animal to another person.

Cold allergy and its symptoms

When the symptoms allergies skin allergy symptoms become worse with constant contact with cold water or being outdoors in the winter, then it it's an allergy allergy cold allergy. It should be borne in mind that allergy cold allergy is not an independent disease, but signals a serious immune or endocrine system disorder. The following symptoms may indicate allergy to cold:

• swelling Swelling of exposed body parts (hands, face, neck)
• Red and itchy skin
• dry and flaky skin
• pink rash on the face and breast
• burning of exposed skin
• headache
• lowered blood pressure pressure
• breathing problems
• sore throat throatitching in nose, ears.

Allergies to dust or household chemicals

This type of allergies suffer most from young children and adults who have a hereditary tendency to allergic diseases, as well as people who suffer from a chronic form of the disease. For these people, any dust or any particle of any chemical substance will be perceived immune system as allergen and symptoms such as:

• allergic rhinitissneezing
• purulent conjunctivitis
• asthmabreathing problems
• clear sticky discharge from nasal discharge
• scabies and burning sensation in nose и throat
• headache, lacrimation
• redness of the whites eyesdeterioration vision
• Inflammatory processes of the airways

The cause of this type of allergies can also be caused by household mites and their products, as well as dead cells of their epidermis.

How to determine the cause of the symptoms

Most cross reactions are typical and well known. Therefore, if new allergy symptoms occur, the search for the "culprit" can be narrowed down. For example, if a person has been diagnosed with birch pollen allergy and new gastrointestinal manifestations of allergic disease appear, the allergist will first suspect a cross-reaction to fruits and vegetables. Allergy tests will then be performed to confirm the exact etiology of the disease.

But this relatively simple diagnostic pathway is only possible if the causes of the primary allergy were accurately established before the cross-reaction occurred. If not, there will be more examinations. The doctor will take a very careful life and medical history to determine when the first allergies appeared, what symptoms prevailed at the beginning of the disease, and how the symptoms changed over time. After that, laboratory tests and allergy tests will be prescribed. Despite the rapid development of medicine, the diagnosis of cross-allergy is still difficult and time-consuming.

If you have an allergic disease, it is imperative that you understand what cross-allergy means and how it can manifest itself. No one is immune from cross-sensitization, so it is very important to identify which allergen is causing the symptoms at the first manifestation of the allergy. If a cross-reaction develops, it will help to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe the right treatment.

How to treat cross-allergies

The first and most important step in treating an allergic disease is to limit contact with the allergen. The best option is to completely eliminate the possibility of contact. In the case of food, latex products, or medications, this is relatively easy. With pollen allergy, contact with the allergen can only be limited.

The second step is to prescribe anti-allergy therapy. The choice of treatment methods will depend on the severity of the disease and the prevailing symptoms. The following groups of medications are usually used:

1. Antihistamines. Due to their pronounced anti-inflammatory activity and ability to block the action of histamine, they quickly eliminate the clinical symptoms of allergy.
2. Glucocorticosteroids. These hormones have a more powerful anti-inflammatory effect, so they are used to treat moderate to severe allergies.
3. Cromones (mast cell stabilizers that have anti-inflammatory effects). These drugs are usually used as nasal sprays and eye drops for pollinosis.
4. Enterosorbents. For food allergies, sorbents may be prescribed as adjunctive therapy.
5. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Medications in this group may be prescribed for pain relief, to reduce fever, and to reduce inflammation. 3,2

Other groups of medications may also be used depending on the symptomatology.

Image 1.3. The antihistamine Fencarol® may be used to treat cross-allergies with food and pollen allergens

Fencarol® helps to stop allergic symptoms: sneezing, rhinorrhea, conjunctivitis, skin rash and itching 5

How to live with a cat if the allergy is confirmed?

Many patients faced with such a problem, wondering whether cat allergies can be treated and whether it is possible to have a pet? It is possible to prevent the appearance of allergic symptoms with the help of medications. If there is an allergic reaction to cats, and a pet already lives in the house, it is worth adhering to such recommendations that will help minimize the appearance of pathological manifestations:

• – Choosing the right food for the pet, which will help reduce the concentration of allergic substances in saliva. Although a pet is an allergen to the human immune system, with the right food, it is possible to reduce the allergenic status of the pet.
• – Use special products to wash the cat or cat.
• – Timely vaccinations at specialized clinics and inspect the pet's coat for ticks, fleas and other pests that can negatively affect its condition, which will increase the amount of protein produced.
• – Get the pet accustomed to its own space. If a person has an allergic reaction, it is better to refuse to sleep with a pet together. Such control will reduce the amount of hair on furniture, clothes, in the bathroom.

If a severe form of allergy is observed, as well as there are chronic diseases, in particular asthma, it is better to give up the pet. In such cases, patients have a hypersensitivity not only to cat hair, but also other substances, which provokes anaphylaxis.

If a mild form of allergic reaction is observed, and you want to have a cat, you should pay attention to the so-called hypoallergenic breeds. Bengal, Burmese, Siamese, Oriental, Cornish Rex, Donkey and Canadian Sphynx cats are safer for allergy sufferers. Hypoallergenic cats also include the Siberian breed. Despite the rather long hair, 75% of allergy sufferers do not have any pathological reaction upon contact with this breed of pets. Experts have also proved that neutering of the pet allows to reduce the level of allergenicity.

How to get rid of cat allergies?

If a cat allergy has appeared, how to get rid of the problem can be advised by an allergist. It is possible to accurately establish an allergic reaction only after a laboratory study. It is impossible to eliminate it completely, so all the treatment methods used are aimed at stopping the symptoms and preventing its occurrence. The main therapeutic measure is to exclude or minimize contact with the allergen. If you already have a pet in the house and the owner does not want to get rid of it, you will need to constantly take anti-allergy medication.

The drug Fencarol ® can help to cope with allergic manifestations. The drug has a triple action – it inhibits the activity of histamine, serotonin receptors and promotes the elimination of histamine from the body.³ The drug may be used not only to treat allergies in adults, but also to relieve allergic symptoms in children from 3 years. 4 Before use, it is recommended to make sure that the drug does not cause a sedative effect by taking a short course.³

Image 1.3. Fencarol® has no pronounced sedative effect and may therefore be used at any time of day or night.

It is recommended that you consult your doctor before using the medicine

If a cat allergy is detected, the medicine is selected taking into account the age, degree of manifestation and nature of symptoms. When the clinical picture is complemented by tissue edema, the patient is prescribed antiedematous agents. Treatment can also be supplemented by taking corticosteroids. Such drugs are not intended for continuous use, since they negatively affect liver function and have many side effects.

In addition to symptomatic treatment, regular prevention is important to minimize the recurrence of symptoms. If possible, it is worth excluding direct contact with the allergen. When a pet lives at home, you need to pay special attention to care for it, using special products. It is equally important to clean regularly, get rid of hair, ventilate the room and do not leave personal hygiene products and clothing, on which allergic particles can remain in an accessible place.

Signs of

The first symptoms of allergies should cause a person to seek medical attention immediately. However, statistics indicate that only 18% of patients go to the doctor in the first year of the disease. Almost 43% of people suffering from spring allergies seek help three or more years after the disease appears. It is quite easy to recognize pollen allergy. The disease mainly causes the following symptoms:

In addition, the development of spring allergy is indicated by profuse liquid nasal discharge. The patient's eyelids swell, and the mucosa turns red. Many people with this diagnosis also complain of shortness of breath, dry wheezing cough and attacks of suffocation.

The intensity of the symptoms can vary greatly depending on the severity of the disease and the amount of allergen ingested. When the irritant enters the gastrointestinal tract, the patient has symptoms:

Much less often spring allergies appear as symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Itching and burning of the skin is usually accompanied by an abundant rash. Such lesions are localized at the places where the dermis comes into contact with the allergen.

Determine the exact cause

The name of the disease pollen comes from the English word pollen. It translates as "pollen. The name hides the true cause of spring allergies. The disease occurs in people whose immune system is hypersensitive to plant pollen and fungal spores. The most common reaction in allergic people is to pollen:

There are medical tests to determine the specific irritant. It is known that almost 100 plant species can cause allergies in people. At the same time, the finer their pollen, the more dangerous it is considered. This is why allergies to conifers are quite rare.

For many people, the first signs of illness mostly occur a few weeks before the start of flowering. The reason is that the wind can bring pollen from plants located in southern areas. As a rule, spring allergies stop bothering a person around the end of May.

In many cases, the allergy is hereditary. In this case, the type of irritant in parents and children are usually the same. One can't ignore professional activity: hairdressers, household chemistry salespeople and workers in dusty industries fall into the risk group.

People whose parents and close relatives also suffer from pollen intolerance have an increased risk of encountering this problem. A lowered immunity, severe stress and unfavorable ecological situation may also aggravate the situation.

Causes of the disease

Many people assume that allergic reactions occur only to cats' hair. However, this view is not entirely accurate. The main irritants are:

A single medication, as well as a food or bacterial allergen can provoke a pathological reaction. Sometimes inflammation of the bronchial wall in a child occurs against the background of preventive vaccinations, inhalation of dry polluted air.

In addition, it is noticed that allergies to cats, are more susceptible to young children than adults. Also, the risk group includes people who suffer from disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. This is because the mucous membrane of the stomach and its microflora act as a barrier to the entry of allergens. Various gastrointestinal pathologies lead to a decrease in these protective properties.

What doctor treats allergies?

It is impossible to cope with the symptoms of the disease on your own. In addition, such an approach is fraught with severe complications. Therefore, at the first uncharacteristic changes in the body, you should seek qualified help in a medical institution. First of all, you need to make an appointment with a general practitioner. It is this doctor who will make an appointment to make a preliminary diagnosis and write a referral to a specialist of a narrower profile. The following doctors diagnose and treat cat hair allergies:

Our specialists

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Treatment

The main method of allergy treatment is to follow a special diet. This allows you to get rid of unpleasant symptoms and minimize the risk of relapse. The allergy diet is followed for life, since the disease is chronic. It requires the complete elimination from the diet of those products that provoke the onset of its symptoms. There are two types of diet:

• Specific. Prescribed to patients in whom laboratory tests have identified allergens such as milk, eggs, protein, chocolate, etc. – Here, the diet will be individualized for each person;
• non-specific. Observed when a specific allergen has not been identified. Since the provocateur of the symptoms has not been identified, all potential triggers of food allergies must be eliminated from the diet.

On a nonspecific diet, the patient is additionally recommended to keep a food diary. In it, it is necessary to write down daily the food consumed and the reaction that occurs to it. This way, the patient will gradually be able to identify food allergens on their own.

• intravenous laser irradiation of the blood. Gives immune-strengthening and anti-inflammatory effects;
• Allergen-specific immunotherapy. An allergen is injected into the body, the dose of which is gradually increased to desensitize the body to it.

Medications

In the acute period of allergic reactions, the patient is prescribed pharmacological drugs. These are mostly drugs with antihistamine action. In mild cases, they are prescribed in tablet form, and in more severe cases – in injectable form, which has a faster effect.

Allergy medications can also be used once a person has accidentally eaten a food allergen. This will help relieve the symptoms of the disease. By means of allergy also include a variety of nasal sprays with a vasoconstrictor effect. They help to reduce the swelling of the mucosa and get rid of congestion. But to avoid addiction, they can be used no longer than 5-7 days.

In severe cases, corticosteroids with a hormonal basis are used. Sorbents, which bind and remove toxins and allergens from the body, have a good effect, which reduces the severity of the allergic reaction.

Allergies to cats

Igor Krivov, a pediatrician at DocDeti Clinic, will talk about cat allergies in this article.

You often hear the question: what to do if you already have a cat, is it possible not to give it away?

It is a common misconception that allergies arise from cat fur, in fact, an allergic reaction is provoked by proteins contained in the saliva, epithelium and lacrimal glands. The proteins indirectly get on the animal's fur as it licks itself with its tongue. Therefore, a bald cat can also be allergic, as the cause is not the presence of fur.

2. Occurrence of coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath;

3. Occurrence of an itchy rash and swelling in the area the cat has touched (licked, scratched);

One option is to take a blood test for specific IgE antibodies to cat allergens. A skin test or prick test can also be done.

Allergies are more likely to occur with a history of allergies. But all situations are individual and it's best to talk to your doctor about this.

Yes! Allergens can adhere to clothing, human hair, particles of house dust. It turns out that they are in the air for a long time and are transferred from place to place. Therefore, even if there are no animals in the vicinity, but a lot of people (at school, cinema), the concentration of allergens can be quite high. In addition, allergens can enter through the ventilation in apartments where there are no animals.

1. one of the most effective ways to deal with pet allergies is to avoid contact with the allergen, which means that the cat must be parted with.

2. Do ASIT for the child to cat allergens. But, unfortunately, this drug is not available in our country.

Below we list auxiliary methods that will only help to alleviate the condition:

6. Carry out regular cleaning, preferably with a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.

8. There is a hypoallergenic cat food that acts on the main allergen Fel d1, reducing it. But it is difficult to say how effective it is.