This may not always be the case, but pet dander affects your lungs. You read that correctly. Not only can pet dander cause itchy eyes and a runny nose, but pet dander can potentially be harmful to your respiratory system. According to the American Lung Association this can “lead to a decline in the ability of the lungs to function.” Make sure that you and your loved ones are safe; let’s start at the basics.
What is pet dander?
The Mayo Clinic sums it up like this: “pet allergies are triggered by exposure to the dead flakes of skin (dander) a pet sheds. Any animal with fur can be a source of pet allergies. Pet allergies are most commonly associated with cats and dogs.” That means those dead flakes of skin are getting everywhere: the carpet, the bed, the couch, and even into the atmosphere.
Solutions
You’re probably thinking that you don’t want to get rid of your pet, but you also don’t want to live in agony for too long. Don’t worry. There are solutions that’ll let you take care of both. Here’s a list of things you can do to keep your pet and help your lungs at the same time:
- Vacuum often (preferably a vacuum with a HEPA filter)
- Get rid of the carpets – they trap in pet dander and other allergens
- Wash your pet on a regular basis
- Keep pets out of your bedroom
- Receive an allergy test and start at-home immunotherapy
Same-day allergy treatment in Atlanta
You read that title right. Same-day allergy treatment in Atlanta is 100% possible and 100% happening as we speak. At the Ear, Nose & Throat Institute, we offer allergy testing with quick turnaround results and allergy treatments (shots, under-the-tongue drops) that you can do at home.
If pet dander affects your lungs, don’t hesitate to schedule same-day allergy treatment in Atlanta with The Ear, Nose and Throat Institute by calling 770-740-1860 or clicking the button below.
Schedule an appointmentCitations
- American Lung Association (2020, February 12) Pet Dander [Website] Retrieved on November 9th, 2020 from https://www.lung.org/clean-air/at-home/indoor-air-pollutants/pet-dander
- Mayo Clinic Staff (2019, May 14) Pet allergy – Symptoms and causes [Medical Article] Retrieved on November 9th, 2020 from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pet-allergy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352192