Pet allergy

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Definition

Pet allergy occurs when your immune system reacts to certain animal proteins. This reaction triggers inflammation in the lining of your nasal passages (allergic rhinitis), causing sneezing, runny nose and other signs and symptoms usually associated with hay fever.

For some people, pet allergy may be the primary cause of inflammation and contraction of airways of the lungs (asthma), resulting in wheezing, shortness of breath and other breathing difficulties.

Any animal with fur can be a source of pet allergy, but pet allergies are most commonly associated with cats, dogs, rodents and horses. Although pet allergy, or animal allergy, is most often a "household problem," it can also affect people who work with animals on farms, in laboratories and in zoos.

If you have a pet allergy, the best strategy is to avoid or reduce exposure to the animal as much as possible. Medications or other treatments may be necessary to relieve symptoms and manage asthma.

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Symptoms