Should I do a test to check for a dog allergy?

Question

Hello doctor,

Last year, we got a puppy, and I’ve never been allergic to dogs before. However, I suspect this mixed breed, which includes Sheepdog, might be causing my problems. The Sheepdog is not a hypoallergenic breed, and I’m experiencing rhinitis and post-nasal drip that leads to constant throat clearing. I am currently using corticosteroid sprays, saline rinses, and Rhinocort (Budesonide). My blood tests show little to no allergy to dogs.

Could the Sheepdog part of this breed still be causing my symptoms despite the bloodwork?
Is there a way to test specifically for her dander or saliva, such as a scratch test?
If I am allergic, what are the options? I would hate to give her away, but my post-nasal drip is severe, and I want to manage my medications better.
Currently, she is staying at my in-laws, and I am going camping for four days. If my symptoms improve while away and return when I bring her back, would that confirm she is the trigger?
What steps do you recommend to test and manage this situation?

Kindly assist.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Better than an allergy blood test is the skin prick test. The skin prick test is the gold standard for allergy diagnosis. It is possible that you are allergic to animal dander but that is not picked up by the bloodwork. Before doing the skin prick test you must stop the antiallergics for a week. Meanwhile, you see how your symptoms are during the period when the dog is with your in-laws. Subsequently when the dog is with you, if you redevelop symptoms, then we can be sure like you said, that you are indeed allergic to her.

Meanwhile, have you ruled out other possible causes of the allergy? Do you suffer from any medical conditions like diabetes or hypertension?

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is true that allergies can develop quickly, but typically, an allergy forms after a period of sensitization. Initially, your body becomes sensitized to the allergen, such as animal dander. Then, upon subsequent exposure, your body reacts with excess secretions and inflammation. This explains why symptoms may only appear after a couple of months of exposure to the allergen. Swollen nasal membranes and recurrent postnasal drip are likely due to allergies unless another cause is identified. Have you had an endoscopy or CT scan of your nasal cavities to investigate this? Has your ENT specialist ruled out other causes before diagnosing it as an allergy? Are you seeing improvement with steroid sprays, Rhinocort (Budesonide), and Azelastine when the dog is around?

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.