How to Desensitize to Animal Allergies

As much as you love your pets, the allergens they produce may cause you discomfort. Animal proteins can upset your immune system, which can trigger inflammation, according to the Mayo Clinic. You may experience fits of sneezing, wheezing, itchy skin and irritated eyes. If an antihistamine medication does not alleviate your symptoms, you may need allergy shots to desensitize your body. You can also reduce your symptoms by cleaning weekly to minimize the amount of animal hair in your home.

Things You'll Need

• Antihistamine oral medication
• Decongestant oral medication
• Corticosteroid nasal spray

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Take an over-the-counter medication daily. Antihistamines block your histamine receptor sites, which react to allergens by causing unpleasant symptoms such as sneezing and itching.

• 2

  Use a daily decongestant. Decongestants reduce symptoms and constrict the blood vessels, which reduce inflammation and allow for easier breathing.

• 3

  Inhale corticosteroid nasal sprays twice daily. According to the Mayo Clinic, corticosteroid nasal sprays reduce inflammation and manage symptoms associated with hay fever.

• 4

  See your dermatologist. If over-the-counter medications are ineffective, she may recommend immunotherapy, a series of allergy shots to desensitize your body from the pet allergies. Full treatment can take up to five years.