Allergist: Giving away a pet doesn't mean allergy symptoms disappear right away

Kristīna Amosova, a pediatric allergist at Skride's Heart Clinic, said on TV24's program "Ārsts atbild" ("The Doctor Answers") that removing a pet from a household does not mean allergy symptoms will vanish immediately.

According to the doctor, the most common allergen currently is house dust mites, since people encounter them indoors year-round, in both winter and summer. Symptoms tend to be more pronounced in winter, when homes are ventilated less often, heating is running, and people spend more time indoors. Among pollen allergens, birch pollen is one of the most frequent triggers.

Animal allergens are widespread

When reviewing patients' complaints, doctors typically check whether the home has dust mites or mold, and whether the person has contact with animals. Amosova notes that allergy to animal allergens is fairly common and can occur not only with dogs or cats but also with other pets such as guinea pigs, mice, or rats.

The situation is especially difficult for people with bronchial asthma. If a doctor determines that a pet is a significant trigger of symptoms and poses a substantial health risk, the family may be advised to consider giving up the animal.

Improvement takes time

Even so, the doctor cautions that giving away a pet will not make symptoms disappear the next day. Pet hair, skin cells, saliva and urine can remain on fabrics, sofas, mattresses, pillows and other surfaces in the home for a long time. Allergens can linger in a home for several months after the animal is gone, meaning noticeable improvement in symptoms usually only comes after a period of several months.