The type of drug and the dosage for you by your doctor will vary depending on your particular case, so always follow your doctor’s and the manufacturer’s instructions for each medication.
Some common brands of antihistamines include Allegra, Astelin, Benadryl, and Claritin. [2] X Research source Long term use of antihistamines generally is safe. However, it can cause side effects and liver issues, especially for people who are at risk of these.
The most popular brand of decongestant is Sudafed. However, decongestants are sometimes combined with antihistamine, which can be found in Allegra-D and Dimetapp Decongestant. [3] X Research source
Steroids for allergies usually include nasal sprays such as Flonase and Nasonex. Although long term oral steroid usage is not recommended, intranasal steroids do not show the same long-term side effects. Because of this, long-term usage is generally acceptable of intranasal steroids as long as you use a low dose and use it only during allergy season. [5] X Research source
These injections can take years to achieve their full effect. Maintenance shots are needed every four weeks for five years. This option may be desirable if you really want to have or love cats but can’t fight your allergy any other way. It doesn’t always work. It also should not be undertaken if the patient is elderly, under five years old, or is immunocompromised. Be aware that allergy shots can be very expensive and may not be covered by insurance.
If they are really good friends or you can’t avoid going to visit, ask if they have a cat-free zone. If not, see if they can create one for you by keeping the cat in another room, vacuuming, and changing linens to reduce the cat dander. [7] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source
This is true of people who own cats. Their clothes likely have dander on then, especially if you can see visible cat hair. Without making a big deal out of it, simply let such people know that you have a bad allergy to cats and that you will have to keep your distance. In the workplace, this may mean sitting away from cat owners. However, don’t be rude about it. You may have an allergy but the cat owner also has feelings. Explain things kindly, in the spirit of compromise.
By not stroking the cat, you avoid picking up this allergen. If you must pet the cat, wash your hands immediately with soap and warm water. You should also avoid bringing a cat close to your face or kissing a cat.
You have to keep this up at all times. Any cat dander can aggravate your allergies. Plus, the more everyone does it, the more it’ll become an ingrained habit. [10] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source
If he is really the problem, you should see a change in your allergies pretty quickly. [11] X Research source
Also consider using allergen reducing shampoos. These help cut down on how much dander your cat will shed on a daily basis. [12] X Research source [13] X Trustworthy Source American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology National professional organization of allergists, asthma specialists and immunologists that focuses on supporting and publishing research Go to source
Grooming will improve the texture of the cat’s coat, which will help remove all sources of allergens from the cat’s spittle, any outdoor pollen and dirt, and anything else the cat has brushed up against. Although this doesn’t reduce the allergens, it may reduce the spread of them by reducing the amount your cat sheds. [14] X Research source
Use damp dusting to help keep down the number of allergens blown into the air. On a daily basis, sweep the floors where pets frequents. Allergens on the floor will blow into the air if walked or sat on. If you can, replace your carpeting with tile or wood flooring. If you do have carpet, always use HEPA filters in your vacuum. Wash all cat toys, bedding, and your own bedding often in hot water. This will also reduce the allergens floating around your home.
If you have a significant other or roommate, ask him or her to clean the areas frequented by the cat. If not, think about hiring help to clean for you.
To help this, you should vacuum daily or at least once a week. If you can find one, buy a vacuum cleaner that is guaranteed to collect pet hair and dander.
