Cat Allergy Symptoms Induce Cat Asthma Attacks

Many illnesses in children and adults are actually caused by a cat allergy symptom. The source of the allergy symptom is of course our feline pet friends. Today, one out of two households has a cat for a pet. This exposes millions who suffer from cat allergy symptom(s) to allergens that produce symptoms ranging from sneezing to severe asthma.

Cat asthma refers to the sudden reaction some people have to coming in close contact with a cat. The victim suffers from spasms and swelling of the respiratory tract due to the immune system rejecting the protein contained in the pet dander. This protein is carried in the cat's saliva and deposited on the feline's fur (to become pet dander) during a cat's constant grooming ritual. In severe instances the airway can be shut off and the person unable to breath.

The top four symptoms that contribute and may indicate an asthma attack is around the corner are as follows:

1. Acute Rhinitis.

Rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal passages in the nose. Acute rhinitis means it occurs suddenly. Many people who suffer from cat (and often food) allergies have an instant reaction when a kitty is brought near their face. This usually evokes a fit of sneezing, and an itchy runny nose. Often the person may sneeze uncontrollably. Allergy relief for this symptom may consist of an over the counter oral antihistamine and/or nasal spray to alleviate cat allergy symptom(s).

2. Itchy, red, watery eyes.

Some sufferers' eyes will water so much it may look like they are crying. Eye drops for cat allergy relief are available over the counter and by a doctor's prescription.

3. Skin Rash or hives.

The skin may have an adverse reaction if the cat saliva comes into contact with the skin (such as the cat licking or rubbing up against you). A raised red area called hives may occur at the point of contact. The body's immune system then takes over and continues to make the rash worsen. Washing the area may help give cat allergy relief from this symptom.

4. Difficulty Breathing or shortness of breath (dyspnea)

If the dander from the cat is inhaled via the air, inflammation and swelling of the airways may occur. If the irritation continues to cause the immune system to attack the mucus lining, an asthma attack occurs.

Anyone with asthma should discuss a treatment plan that includes a rescue inhaler if cat asthma symptoms need to be controlled suddenly due to an attack. Most individuals who know they suffer from symptoms carry and inhaler to counteract the swelling of the respiratory tract. Prompt treatment is crucial. If an attack does not improve quickly with on hand treatments; call 911 and request professional medical assistance to avoid fatality.

Suffering from a cat allergy symptom may be difficult if many of your friends are cat lovers and owners. Some things you can do to maintain your friendship while avoiding symptoms from occurring is to ask your friend to put kitty in a secure (and away from you) place. Do let them know it is not because you are a cat hater, but rather you want to avoid becoming seriously ill. Your friends should understand this.