Q
2025-03-09 14:12:59

Could this be a dog fur allergy? Should I get tested?

"I slept over at a friend's house who has a dog, and my nose started stinging, my throat felt itchy, and my chest felt tight. At first, I thought I'd be okay and went to sleep, but later I felt dizzy, my body became limp, and I started coughing.
I occasionally get skin allergies when my immune system is weak, but I've had similar symptoms around dogs or cats before. Recently, I've begun to suspect these symptoms might be due to allergies.
Ugh... Even now, I'm picking dog hair off my clothes because of my mom's allergy, and my throat feels itchy and my nose is tingling.

A
Dr.s Diagnosis
It sounds like you are experiencing symptoms consistent with an allergic reaction, likely related to exposure to your friend's dog. The stinging in your nose, itchy throat, tightness in your chest, dizziness, and coughing are common signs of an allergy or asthma-related response to pet dander. Here are some suggestions: 1. Avoid Exposure: Try to limit your exposure to dogs and other pets, especially if you know you have had reactions in the past. 2. Allergy Testing: Consider seeing an allergist for testing to confirm if you have a specific allergy to pet dander. This can help guide your management. 3. Medications: Over-the-counter antihistamines may help alleviate your symptoms. If you experience asthma-like symptoms, a bronchodilator inhaler could be beneficial, but consult with a healthcare provider for a prescription. 4. Environment Control: If you have pets at home, keep them out of your bedroom and use air purifiers to reduce allergens. 5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and discuss them with a healthcare professional, especially if they worsen or if you experience severe reactions. If your symptoms become severe or you have difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.