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Allergic to cat hair is a myth

An allergy to cats is a myth


Many people would love to have a cat at home, but this is impossible because one of the family members is allergic to hair. But is it really for hair?? How to deal with an allergy and whether it really stands in the way of having a kitten?

What really makes you feel?

People who are allergic to cats are not actually allergic to their hair, but to cat saliva, which is a strong protein-containing allergen, and to particles of skin deposited on the fur. The sebaceous glands produce a secretion that settles on the cat's skin and then spreads around the room along with the exfoliating epidermis. In addition, the cat leaves its saliva on the fur during the daily toilet, after it dries, the saliva drops from the fur and spreads throughout the apartment. Fel d1 glycoprotein particles settle in hard-to-reach places, especially in soft furniture or on carpets, and may remain there for many months. That is why people allergic to cats feel the presence of animals in rooms where they are not currently present.

Now that we know that hair is not an allergen, but cat saliva and skin, let's figure out how to deal with an allergy?

Paradoxically, one of the best ways to get rid of cat allergies is to live with them under one roof. The organism becomes immune and desensitized during frequent and strong contact with the allergen. Of course, this applies to a mild course of allergies characterized by symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose or sneezing.

In the above cases, it is enough to keep the apartment clean. Frequent cleaning, vacuuming and elimination of cat hair improves the condition of the allergy sufferer.

It is worth remembering about airing the rooms, not letting your pet into the bedroom, and about washing your hands after playing with the cat. It is important to purchase an air filter and place it in every room.

In the event of a severe allergy manifested by a rash, itching, severe cough or breathing difficulties that may lead to chronic sinusitis or even asthma, immediately limit contact with the cat.

It makes sense to think about placing your cat with a healthy family member or friend in this case. You can also give the favorite to a foster family. There are many solutions to avoid shelter, let's keep that in mind.

Antiallergic preparations and desensitization

  • The use of antihistamines neutralizes the symptoms of allergies.
  • You can also use nasal or inhaled corticosteroids - their action is local and anti-inflammatory.
  • Decongestants stop the occurrence of a runny nose or swelling of the nasal mucosa.
  • Performing allergy tests will allow you to accurately locate the cause of allergy and desensitize to a specific ingredient. Vaccination immunizes the immune system, which begins to tolerate the allergen. Unfortunately, it is a long-term process - this type of desensitization lasts from 3 to 5 years.

Tip:

Some antiallergic drugs are a combination of antihistamines and decongestants. These drugs are most effective, but at the same time very dangerous for people with high blood pressure or heart disease. Therefore, desensitization should be carried out under the watchful eye of a doctor.

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