Animal Allergy | Diagnosis & Treatments
How are animal allergies diagnosed?
All tests measure your child's level of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to specific allergens.
Skin test
Using diluted solutions of specific allergens, the physician either injects your child with the solutions or applies them to a small scratch or puncture. Reaction appears as a small red area on the skin.
Skin tests provide faster results and are more specific than blood tests.
Blood test
A RAST (radioallergosorbent test) will analyze the level of antibodies in your child's bloodstream.
How are animal allergies in children treated?
Your child's doctor may treat your child using immunotherapy (allergy shots) or medication that includes steroidal and antihistamine nose sprays and antihistamine pills.
There are many things you can do at home to help reduce your child's allergic reactions:
- Vacuum frequently and use air filters.
- Send pets outdoors more often; bathing them or limiting the number of rooms they're allowed in can also help.
