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May 2016 | Read this issue and more at www.healthandwellnessmagazine.net |
Coping With Pet Allergies
Take steps to reduce dander from hair and fur
By Harleena Singh, Staff Writer
Many pet owners have an allergy
to their animals (allergic rhinitis). Pet
dander can cause allergy symptoms
through indirect contact (airborne
allergens are inhaled into the nose
and lungs) or by transfer of the dander directly to nasal and/or ocular
mucosa by contact with pet allergen
from contaminated hands or clothing.
Pet hair or fur can collect mold
spores, pollen and other outdoor
allergens. The protein found in pet
dander, skin flakes, urine and saliva
could aggravate asthma symp-
toms or cause an allergic reaction in
some people.
Sensitive people may display reactions at work and other places due
to the presence of pet dander on
rugs and in clothing, bedding and
air ducts. All these can be a source
of allergens even when the pets and
their families have moved. Pet allergens can remain in a home for up to
six months or more after a pet has
been removed.
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