Let’s start with the basics of allergies.

What Are Allergies?

Allergies are a response of the immune system to harmless substances in the air, called allergens. Allergens can be mold, pet dander, pollen, grass, etc. It is very common to have allergies. Allergens trigger in the body a release of chemicals like histamine, which causes your allergy symptoms of itchiness, runny nose and watery eyes. Air born allergens will show symptoms in the eyes, nose and lungs. Ingested allergens (peanuts, shellfish) will show symptoms in the mouth, stomach and intestines.

What Are the Symptoms of Allergies?

Mild reactions include itchiness, runny nose, watery eyes and rash. Moderate symptoms will spread to other parts of the body and may include difficulty breathing. Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) can be life threatening and includes, in addition to the mild and moderate symptoms, abdominal pain, cramps, vomiting and diarrhea, swelling, mental confusion and dizziness. Swallowing and breathing may be very difficult.

What Causes Pet Allergies and What is Pet Dander?

Pet dander is the flakes from animal’s skin. Think dandruff. People are also allergic to the pet’s saliva, and since your pet cleans itself with its tongue, its saliva is everywhere. Pet urine may trigger allergies as well.

What do Pet Allergies Look Like?

Pet allergies may represent themselves as itchiness, itchy, watery eyes and runny noses. Some children may wheeze and be diagnosed with asthma. If a child has asthma, a pet can intensify the asthma. There have been studies that show a child exposed to certain allergens before the age of two are unlikely to become allergic.

But I Love My Pet!

There are ways to live with a pet when you have a pet allergy:

• Limit the areas where the pet is allowed. Don’t let it into your bedroom.
• Get a HEPA filter for your home.
• Carpet traps dander. Vacuum frequently or install wooden floors.
• Bathe your pet often.
• Wash fabrics regularly, including bedding, towels, curtains and furniture covers.
• Wash hands after contact with the pet.

Relieving Your Allergy Symptoms

There are many ways to relieve allergy symptoms. Antihistamines and decongestants can relieve itchiness and congestion. Eye drops can relieve itchy, watery eyes. Be careful of over the counter nasal sprays as they can cause a physical dependency. For severe allergies a regular shot may by required. Steroids can be taken orally, as a nasal spray, eye drops or inhaled. These would be prescribed by a doctor.

Natural Relief of Allergy Symptoms

There are many supplements that can be taken to relieve allergies. Consider reducing your exposure to allergens and exploring natural remedies such as acupuncture and netty pots. Netty pots look like small watering cans in which you put warm water and a touch of salt. Leaning over, you pour the water into your nose where it flushes out your sinuses.

http://www.webmd.com/allergies/default.htm