Understanding cat allergy
What is a cat allergy?
Allergy to cats is a reaction of the immune system to certain proteins present in the dead skin (dander), saliva, urine or feces of these animals. When a person is allergic to cats, their immune system mistakenly regards these natural, normally harmless substances as a threat. It goes into overdrive to defend itself, producing antibodies that attack the allergen. When these antibodies attack allergens, they trigger a series of inflammatory reactions that give rise to allergy symptoms.Cat allergy is quite common and can occur in people of any age, even if they’ve never been allergic to cats before.
Common symptoms of cat allergy
It’s important to note that cat allergy symptoms can vary depending on the individual and his or her level of sensitivity. However, certain manifestations are common. In general, they include respiratory signs such as runny nose, blocked nose, coughing and sneezing. Eye symptoms can also occur, such as itchy, watery or reddened eyes. Some people may also experience skin rashes or redness wherever a cat has scratched or licked them. In the most severe cases, the allergy can manifest itself as an asthma attack, with symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and night-time coughing.
Can you suddenly become allergic to cats?
The phenomenon of sudden allergies
The very idea of becoming allergic to something overnight may seem disconcerting. However, it can happen, and it’s more common than you might think. In fact, it’s possible for a person to develop a new allergy at almost any time in their life. Allergies are not necessarily permanent conditions and can appear or disappear over time. Rather than overnight, it would be more accurate to say that allergies can appear rapidly, in the sense that symptoms can become apparent in a short space of time. This sudden sensitization may occur after a period of intense contact with the allergen, or after sporadic, prolonged contact.
Sudden cat allergy: why and how?
There are several reasons why a person may become allergic to cats. Firstly, prolonged and continuous exposure to cat allergens can promote the development of hypersensitivity. Similarly, some people are genetically predisposed to developing allergies. Furthermore, it has been found that allergies can be associated with other medical conditions, such as asthma or eczema. In addition, hormonal changes and exposure to certain infections or diseases can also modify the immune system’s reactivity to allergens. Finally, it’s important to note that stress, whether physical or emotional, can also encourage the onset of a new allergy. It is therefore essential to understand these different risk factors and take them into account for better allergy management.
How to diagnose and treat cat allergy?
How to check if you’ve become allergic to cats
If you notice that you’re beginning to show signs of an allergy after contact with cats, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. Initially, this professional will probably be able to identify a potential allergy based on your symptoms and observation of your reaction after contact with a cat. However, to confirm the diagnosis, allergy tests may be required. These may take the form of a skin test, where the allergen is applied to the skin and the area monitored for an allergic reaction, or a blood test to look for specific antibodies. Consultation with an allergist is essential to make a precise diagnosis and set up a suitable treatment plan.
Treatments available for cat allergies
Once the allergy has been confirmed, there are several options for managing and treating cat allergy. The first is to avoid contact with cats altogether, which can be difficult, if not impossible, for existing cat owners. In this case, we recommend limiting contact with the animal as much as possible, and taking steps to reduce its presence in the home. Taking antihistamines can also help control symptoms. These drugs work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the immune system when it reacts to an allergen. It is histamine that is primarily responsible for allergic symptoms. For more severe cases, immunotherapy may be an option. This involves regular injections of a small amount of allergen, with the aim of desensitizing the immune system and reducing the severity of the allergic reaction over time.
In short, although it may seem strange and disconcerting to become allergic to cats overnight, it’s a very real phenomenon. The key is to understand the factors behind this sensitivity, and to know that there are management methods and treatments that can help you live with this type of allergy. If you, a family member or a friend develop allergy symptoms after contact with a cat, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and advice.
