First of all, the skin of the animal in which up to 29 protein antigens that allergen people were found. The main antigen causing the IgE-class antibodies is found in the epidermis, urine, saliva, hair and dog droppings. Although it has not been definitively decided which of the "carriers" of allergens is the most allergenic, it is believed that the most likely sensitization is the epidermis.
What symptoms can allergy to a dog cause?
In allergy sufferers, allergens can cause conjunctivitis, asthma, and allergic rhinitis. They can also cause urticaria and angioneurotic edema. Skin symptoms are generally the result of licking the animal.
Are all breeds of dogs the same threat to an allergy sufferer?
There is no "harmless" breed for an allergy sufferer. The breeds described as "short-haired" also have active allergen in the epidermis. The "long-haired" breeds, in addition to the allergen in the epidermis, may additionally accumulate on the hair other allergens retained from the environment, such as dust mites, pollen, molds - which can also be sensitized to the patient. Patients can also react to other substances found on the dog, such as soap and anti-flea powder.
How to reduce the allergic risk on the part of the dog?
First of all, the growth and flaking of the epidermis should be reduced, especially for dogs suffering from skin infections, dogs with flea allergies, poorly nourished, etc. Caring for animal health, proper nutrition and washing, proper veterinary care reduces the production and flaking of the epidermis, and thus the concentration of the allergen.
EGG ALLERGIES
What is allergic in cats?
Although several active allergens have been detected in this pet, the so-called the main cat allergen is produced by the salivary glands and sebaceous glands contained in the skin. This allergen, in the form of secretion of sebaceous glands, constantly moisturizes the bristles of the animal, as well as being transferred to the fur with saliva, during licking, an activity that we call the "washing" of the cat. However, not all cats are equally allergenic. It was established that some people who are allergic react more sensitively to certain animals and not to others. According to scientists, this may be due to the different amount of antigens produced.
What symptoms causes allergies to cat antigens?
In allergic individuals, cat allergens may cause asthma, allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis and atopic dermatitis, with symptoms of urticaria and pruritus.
Are cat antigens a strong allergen?
One of the strongest! Despite the fact that dogs in homes far outnumber cats - cats more often sensitize. In people who are allergic to cat and dog - allergy to a cat causes more symptoms and more often causes the symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis and asthma. What's more, allergy to a cat intensifies with age more than on a dog. This is due not only to the fact that cats are at home more often than dogs, especially in the bedroom or in the bed of children. Cat's antigen is more allergenic than dog's antigens, and is also one of the most ubiquitous of allergens.
Why are cat allergens ubiquitous?
The cat's epidermal particles are very small - 10 times smaller than the mite allergen - so they easily float in the air. Draft, the wind sows them in the air for long distances. They are also very sticky, so they are easily transferred on clothing and footwear from place to place.
Will we get rid of cat allergies after getting rid of the animal?
Yes, but you have to be prepared that, in spite of hygiene efforts, purification of the home from antigens will be slow. Therefore, one should not expect rapid improvement of the patient's condition after getting rid of the cat.The high level of antigen may persist after many months. However, you can speed up the cleansing of allergens by removing carpets, mattresses, rugs, etc. It is also recommended to vacuum the flat intensively. It is advantageous to equip the house with special vacuum cleaners or filters to capture particles of small size.
Ed. Edward Ozga Michalski, MA
Consultation by prof. dr hab. med. Andrzej Danysz