What does a dog allergy rash look like on humans
Dog Allergy Symptoms in Humans
Humans may be allergic to dogs and about 1 in 10 people develop allergies to pets. Dog allergy symptoms aredeveloped to dog dander and in rare cases to dog hair, urine andsaliva. The typical dog allergy signs include sneezing, coughing orrashes on the surface of the skin.
Dog Allergy Symptoms in Humans
Dogs shed dander on a regular basis. The dog dander is made up ofskin cells and contains also several proteins; one of these proteinscauses the negative reactions in humans. This protein is present inlower concentrations in the dogs urine and saliva, but typicallyhumans develop allergies to dog dander only.
The symptoms of allergies to dogs include:
- Skin itchiness, caused by the contact with dog dander
- Rashes on the skin
- Frequent sneezing, especially in the presence of a dog, as the dander is inhaled and irritates the air ways
- Dry coughing
- Breathing problems, when inhaling the dog dander
- Stuffed nose, due to the presence of histamines that are secreted in excess by the immune system
- Watery eyes, also caused by the histamines in excess
- Inflamed eyes, if the allergic person touches a dog and then touches his eyes
- Swollen extremities, in rare cases
These allergy symptoms will be present when the allergic person in adogs companionship, but also when he is in an environment where dogdander is present.
Diagnosing Allergies to Dogs
The allergies to dogs are mostly developed in people with a more sensitive immune system.
The allergies may be detected through skin or blood testing. Theskin testing will be performed by injecting a bit of dog dander proteinunder the skin; if the patient displays a rash or a negative reactionin the following 3 to 5 hours, the diagnosis is clear.
The blood can be examined to see if there are antibodies that form when the blood is in contact with the allergen substances.
Dog Allergy Treatment Options
Dog allergies may not be treated, but there are treatment options that can reduce the symptoms.
The treatment options for people with allergies to dog dander include:
- Antihistamines, which reduce the symptoms but will not cure thecondition; must be periodically rotated, so that the patient doesntdevelop immunity to the drugs
- Steroids, not recommended for long term use, as they have severe side effects including kidney or liver damage
- Allergy shots, are effective in over 75% of people and may possiblymake the patient immune to dog dander; the main disadvantage of theallergy shots is that they need to be administered for at least 3 to 6months before they start being effective and should be administered for2 to 5 years to develop immunity to dander
- Immunity boosters and diet supplements
There have been rumors about the invention of hypoallergenic dogs;however, dogs that dont cause allergies in humans dont exist. Allbreeds of dogs produce dander, so they all cause allergic reactions inmore sensitive people.
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Pet Allergy
How common are allergies to pets?
Cat and dog allergy is common, especially in people who also have allergic asthma or hay fever. It is also possible to be allergic to other types of animals including those with hair (fur), feathers or even scales, including:
- Rabbits
- Rodents such as guinea pigs, mice and hamsters
- Birds
- Horses
- Reptiles, such as iguanas
- In addition allergy to pet bedding (straw, shredded paper, moulds ) is a possibility
What causes pet allergy?
Pet allergy is caused by the protein in a pets saliva, urine or dander (shed skin particles). Cats and dogs produce multiple proteins with the potential to cause a pet allergy. It is commonly thought that the hair causes symptoms, however it is the pets dander that is mainly responsible. This is spread when pets shed their hair or feathers or groom themselves. Cat allergen is found on the skin and fur and is due to their sebaceous and salivary glands: when a cat licks itself the allergen is transferred onto the hair. Dog allergen is found mainly in the hair, dander and saliva. The main source of allergen for rodents, such as mice, is in their urine.
Allergic signs and symptoms are seen in people whose immune system mistakenly recognises pet dander, saliva, or urine, as a harmful substance (allergen) and, as a result, produces IgE antibodies as a defence mechanism. On further exposure to that pet allergen, allergic signs and symptoms may be seen as an allergic reaction.
Pet hair itself can also act as a carrier of other airborne allergens: pollen, house dust mite and mould, which can cause allergic symptoms in individuals with hay fever, asthma, or eczema. Pet dander alone can also be an allergic trigger in these allergic conditions. Having a cat or dog allergy is also a risk factor for the development of allergic rhinitis or asthma.
Exposure to pet dander in the environment
It is possible to develop an allergy to an animal or pet at any time, even where that animal has previously been a pet, or where a pet does not live in your home. Workplace exposure can occur for occupations such as vets, farmers, and laboratory scientists.
Pet allergens can also be found in schools and public places where they have been transferred on clothing and shoes from pet owners. Exposure to cat allergen in schools can exacerbate symptoms in asthmatic children with cat allergy.
Cat allergen is particularly persistent and can remain in homes long after a cat is no longer there. Pet dander can become airborne as hair is shed by grooming and collects on furniture and other surfaces.
Horse allergy is an important problem even in a young urban population. It causes a wide range of allergic symptoms from urticaria (rash) to respiratory problems. This type of allergen can also be carried on clothing with the dander being transferred.
Hypo-allergenic pets
There is no such thing as a truly non-allergic dog or cat.
Signs and symptoms of a pet allergy
Allergic symptoms of a pet allergy can be mild, moderate or severe, depending upon the individuals sensitivity and level of exposure. They can start within minutes of exposure or can be delayed (late phase response) and include:
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Breathing difficulties
- Wheeze
- Watery, red, itchy eyes
- Skin rash/Hives
- Eczema flare
- Anaphylaxis
Diagnosing a pet allergy
Identifying allergic triggers is an important part of managing an allergy.
If you suspect pet allergy it is important to discuss this with your GP or Health Professional, especially if you have other allergic conditions such as asthma, rhinitis or eczema.
Your GP/Health Professional may refer you for allergy testing to confirm or exclude a pet allergy. This can be done by a blood test for specific IgE to the suspected animal and/or by skin prick testing. Referral to an allergy specialist may be needed. Allergy testing before getting a pet for people without any symptoms of allergy is unhelpful. This is because subsequent exposure may still lead to allergy in a person who has previously not been allergic to pets.
Practical advice on reducing animal dander exposure
Using a combination of the following pet allergen control measures may help to reduce symptoms and control existing allergic symptoms that are triggered by pet allergen.
Inside the home:
- Keep pets outside if possible and always out of the bedroom
- Do not allow pets to sit or sleep on soft furnishings such as sofas, cushions, or beds
- Wash pet bedding regularly on a hot wash
- Remove horse-riding clothes before entering the home. Bag and wash them and shower after riding
- Using an air purifier may help reduce indoor airborne allergens
Outside the home:
- Avoid contact with relevant animals
- If possible avoid visiting homes/areas where pets live
- If exposure is likely, try taking an antihistamine beforehand and use your prescribed preventative treatment for asthma / rhinitis. Avoid touching the pet or being in the same room
- Wash hands after touching or being licked by a pet
- Washing and grooming pets regularly (by a non-allergic person) may help reduce allergen shedding.
By cleaning:
The aim of these recommendations are to reduce the amount of allergen in the air and environment, including on surfaces, soft and hard furnishings and the floor.
- Damp dust as often as possible to help keep pet dander (as well as dust mites and other allergens) to a minimum
- Clean carpets using a vacuum (but it must be one with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter and wash hard floor surfaces with hot, soapy water
- Wash soft furnishings like duvet covers, curtains, cushions, soft toys on a hot wash cycle
- Super- heated steam cleaning has the potential to disrupt allergens so that they no longer cause symptoms
- Clean animal cages outside and replace any bedding or litter that has urine on it.
Pet allergy management and treatment
- Avoid the pet or animal where possible
- If this is impossible or insufficient then medication to help alleviate the symptoms can be used after advice from a Health professional (GP or Pharmacist). Medicines include:
- Non-sedating antihistamines
- Antihistamine nasal sprays
- Eye drops
- Nasal sprays
- Asthma inhalers
- Allergen barrier balm
- In moderate to severe pet-induced allergy, allergen-specific immunotherapy may be appropriate. This requires initial GP assessment then referral to allergy/immunology specialist. It is unlikely to be NHS funded.
A Guide to Flea Bites on Humans
Animals typically introduce fleas to humans, which can lead to flea bites. Flea bites can occur after spending time with an animal or when an animal introduces fleas in and around your home.
This article will discuss the symptoms of flea bites on humans and how to identify them. It will also explain treatment, prevention, possible complications, and more.
Symptoms of a flea bite can include:
- small, itchy, or discolored lumps or welts that develop within half an hour of the bite
- a welt that develops into a blister or small lesion after about a day
- bites that group in lines or clusters, sometimes in groups of three
More severe reactions can include papular urticaria, which is a hypersensitive reaction to insect bites. This can cause extensive itchy papules and large welts that may be painful and feel warm.
Identifying flea bites on humans
You may be able to identify a flea bite based on its appearance.
Fleas have the following physical characteristics:
- they are wingless
- they are oval-shaped, with a length of around 28 millimeters
- they are light to deep brown in color
- they have six legs, with larger hind legs
- they have a small head and larger body
You may also be able to identify fleas from their feces, which resembles dark specks.
To identify feces from fleas, use gloves to place a few specks on a slightly moist, white tissue. Look for any blood that leeches visibly into the tissue. This may be an indication of flea feces.
If flea feces is present in your environment, a flea may be the cause of your bite.
Below are some pictures of fleas and flea bites on humans to help you identify your symptoms.
Flea bites can cause small, red lumps on the skin. They can occur in groups or clusters of several bites.
wiroj Roudkhlay/Shutterstock
Flea bites can also cause small, raised weals on the skin without any signs of discoloration.
Azhari Fotolestari/Shutterstock
Flea bites can develop into blisters or weals. They commonly occur on the lower legs and feet.
Angela Hampton Picture Library / Alamy Stock Photo
A flea is typically dark brown in color. It has a small head, a larger body, and six legs. The hind legs are particularly long.
David Jara Bogunya/Shutterstock
Flea bites vs. other bites
It may be hard to distinguish between different types of bites, such as those from bed bugs and fleas.
Although other insect bites and stings may also produce discolored lumps and itching, flea bites can differ in appearance. Unlike mosquito or tick bites, flea bites can remain small and appear in groups.
Spider bites may leave visible puncture marks on the skin, whereas flea bites may not.
Fleas from dogs and cats also commonly leave bites on the lower legs and feet, such as around the ankle. You may also notice flea bites on your forearms if you have been petting an animal.
While the causes may be different, initial care for different insect bites can be the same. Because of this, accurate identification may not always be necessary for mild bites or bites without complications.
Learn more about bed bugs and their bites here.
Fleas can sometimes transmit diseases and parasites to humans. If a flea bites an infected animal, they may then pass the infection to any person they bite afterward.
Infections that fleas can spread include:
- bubonic plague
- flea-borne typhus, also known as murine typhus or rickettsial typhus
- bartonella henselae, the bacteria that causes cat scratch fever and bacillary angiomatosis
- tapeworm
Flea bites can also cause other complications such as allergic reactions and inflammatory reactions such as tungiasis.
Tungiasis occurs when tropical sand fleas (Tunga penetrans) burrow into the skin and cause inflammation, papules, and secondary skin infections.
Signs and symptoms of infection may occur up to a couple of weeks after the initial bite.
While these complications may sound serious, severe illness from flea bites is rare. The
Additionally, the National Health Service suggests that most insect bites will not become serious and only occasionally develop infection.
However, to avoid infection, it is important not to scratch any bite wounds.
When to seek medical help
Contact your doctor for any symptoms that do not improve after a couple of days.
Seek prompt medical advice for any signs of infection. Symptoms of infected bites can include:
Seek emergency medical treatment or call 911 for any signs of a respiratory allergic reaction, such as:
- difficulty breathing
- dizziness
- swelling around the face or mouth
- tightness in the chest or throat
- difficulty talking
- extensive skin rash that is:
- itchy
- discolored or blotchy
- swollen
- blistering or peeling
Home remedies and self-care
You may be able to treat uninfected flea bites with at home care.
Self-treatment for flea bites can include:
- avoiding scratching or catching any bites or lesions
- using over-the-counter (OTC) products such as:
- calamine lotion or anesthetic creams to relieve itching and reduce the urge to scratch
- colloidal oatmeal products for baths
- topical antihistamines, antipruritic, and antibacterial creams
- washing the bites regularly with antiseptic soap
- applying a cold compress to alleviate swelling
- avoiding taking hot showers or baths
- treating your home and outside areas for fleas and flea larvae
- discussing taking antihistamines with your pharmacist
Even if your bites seem mild, talk to your doctor about treatment for a possible tapeworm infection.
Always consult a pharmacist or doctor before taking OTC medications. All drugs can carry a risk of side effects, and safe doses will vary depending on the person.
Clinical treatment options
Flea bites that cause infection or allergic reactions may require clinical care.
In addition to at-home care, doctors may recommend medical treatment for more severe bites, including:
- topical steroids
- oral antibiotics for bacterial infections
- adrenaline auto-injectors such as an EpiPen for urgent allergic reactions
- steroid tablets
- immunotherapy for severe or chronic allergies
You may be able to lower your risk of flea bites by taking steps to manage your pets and home.
As pets are the main carrier of adult fleas, the following methods may help to reduce bites:
- Regularly inspect animals you are in close proximity to for fleas. Check the animals:
- neck
- groin
- back of the legs
- back
- base of the tail
- Wash the animal regularly with pet-safe soapy water.
- Brush the animal regularly using a flea comb, then drowning any fleas in soapy water.
- Consult a veterinarian about which insecticides are appropriate for the animal.
- Keep animals outside of the bedroom and away from textiles that humans use.
Covering your skin and using a topical insect repellent may also help to reduce your risk of bites.
Removing fleas from the home
Making sure your home environment is free of fleas can help to reduce bites and the risk of complications.
General advice for reducing fleas in the home includes:
- thoroughly cleaning pet bedding and surrounding areas regularly
- vacuuming any carpet and disposing of or washing the vacuum cleaner bag when finished
- using a flea spray in the house, following the labels instructions
- treating outside areas used by animals with insecticides
- regularly cleaning the home, including textiles and furnishings
Make sure to wear protective clothing such as gloves and long shirts or pants when cleaning for fleas.If you do have a flea infestation, you may need to repeat the cleaning process more than once. Some flea eggs can survive for several weeks. Persistent infestations may also require treatment from a licensed pest control provider.
Frequently asked questions
The following frequently asked questions have been medically reviewed by Avi Varma, M.D., M.P.H., AAHIVS, FAAFP.
How do you get rid of flea bites on humans?
Flea bites that do not develop an infection or allergic reaction may not require clinical treatment. They can heal in a few days.
You can alleviate mild symptoms of flea bites such as itching by using OTC antihistamines and applying a cold compress. Cleaning the bites with antiseptic soaps and avoiding scratching can also reduce the risk of complications.
How long do flea bites last on humans?
Some bites can clear on their own or with at-home treatment within a few days.
However, if bites become infected, recovery may take longer and require medical care.
Can fleas live in your bed?
Fleas can live in the bed and bedding.
Flea larvae tend to feed on debris left in bedding and other areas such as carpets. Adult fleas will lay eggs in bed linen. Additionally, adult fleas can survive in certain environments without food or blood meals for a couple of months. This can include bedding.
How do you check your house for fleas?
Fleas can be difficult to identify. It may be easier to see their features against a white background. Fleas are wingless and light to dark brown in color.
To further identify fleas in the home, look for any dark specks that may be flea feces. Place the specks onto a white tissue that is slightly moist. If the specks leech blood, they may be flea feces and might be an indication of a flea infestation.
Flea bites on humans may cause small, itchy, and discolored lumps to appear on the skin.
While fleas can transmit infections and sometimes cause allergic reactions, these are not common. Most bites heal with at-home care such as with the use of OTC antihistamines and antiseptics, and avoiding scratching.
Seek immediate medical care for symptoms of infection or allergic reaction. These can include pus-filled lesions, fever, or difficulty breathing. Contact your doctor for any bites that do not show improvement after a few days.
