Airborne Allergies

Airborne allergies or atopic dermatitis (allergic dermatitis, atopy) is an inherited predisposition to develop allergic symptoms following repeated exposure to an "allergen," such as dust mites or pollen.

Features of Atopy

Seasonality

Atopy usually produces a seasonal itchiness though after several years, the duration of the itchy period extends. Finally, the pet is itchy nearly all year round.

Young age of onset

Seasonal itchiness due to atopy tends to begin early in a pet's life (between ages 1 and 3 years in 70% of dogs diagnosed with atopy).

Treatment Options

Before doing anything else, it is important to clear up secondary infections. Secondary infections involve bacteria (usually Staphylococcal) and/or yeast (Malassezia) at the site of the itchiest areas.

• Making the Skin Less Reactive.
• Reducing Allergen Exposure.
• Hyposensitization.