7 Ways to Handle Pets If You Have Asthma
For dog and cat owners, pets are like family members themselves. Therefore it is very annoying to hold or be around the pet even cause your asthma relapse. Allergies can strike at any time, even if you have never experienced it before. Allergies that have been lost several years ago can reappear as adults.
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to reduce the allergic response. Some are easy to do, but some, such as avoiding animals, is hard to do. First, talk to the allergist. There may be available free medicines that can avoid symptoms, or you may be a good candidate for allergy shots. In addition, here are some helpful hints.
Clean the air
Consider an air filter on your home. If you have air conditioning with a duct system, air filtration systems throughout the house is a good choice. Install high-efficiency air filters (HEPA, the best type) in as many rooms as possible. HEPA will suck the particles that cause allergies from your pet.
Pay attention to the fabric in your home
Some home furnishings can be a den of dust, so clean the furniture and carpet sheaths. Vacuum with a thorough use of a vacuum with HEPA filter, and wash the curtains, the bed sheets with the highest temperature.
Avoid pets from the bedroom
You may enjoy sleeping with your pet, but limit contacts when you wake up. You spend most of your life in bed, keeping your bed free of pets and safe from potential allergens. Use allergy-free sheets and attach HEPA filters in the rooms.
Bathe your pet
Bathing animals can clean allergens from their skin. Did you know that the problem is saliva, dead skin and hair cells, not animal hair. Saliva and dander contain proteins attached to fur and skin when the animal licks its body. The regular bath can also clean the feathers from other allergens, such as dust mites, pollen and fungi. Cats can also be bathed, as long as you use a special shampoo for cats.
Brush regularly
Ideally, family members who do not have allergies can comb pets outside the home. This can get rid of dander and excessive hair.
Wipe allergen
Use a pet-only cloth to keep dogs and cats clean and fresh, while eliminating dander and other irritants.
Avoid your face
You may like kissing your pet's hair, but sticking your nose, mouth, and eyes directly on the animal can cause problems. You can show your affection by holding and caressing it. Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly afterwards to avoid allergies.
