Some people are allergic to horses. Depending on the person, this can result in a combination of the following symptoms: - Watery or itchy eyes - Runny or itchy nose - Hives, rashes or itchy skin - Coughing or sneezing - Breathing difficulties - Asthma
The severity of these symptoms varies from person to person, ranging from a slight itch to a serious asthma attack. People with asthma should be careful when they first come into contact with horses as there have been a number of cases of fatal asthma reactions. In particular, asthmatic children coming into contact with horses for the first time should be carefully monitored to see if they have an adverse reaction and their medication should be available to hand in case that they do.
The most common cause of horse allergies is horse dander (bits of hair and skin which flake off, like dandruff). Other common causes include horse mites, urine and even horse salvia.
One can easily have an allergic reaction without touching or being close to a horse. If one enters a barn or other enclosed area which has been recently used to hold horses, one can have a reaction to allergic agents which remain even though no horses are present at the time. Likewise, if one has a friend or family member who rides, it is quite possible to have a reaction when coming into contact with their riding clothes, tack or even their hair as allergic agents can easily be rubbed into these.
Horse allergies can be easily treated, using the same methods as for other allergies. These include medication, desensitizing treatment or simple avoidance.
If you want to ride horses but find that allergies are making this difficult (or less enjoyable), another approach is to try riding a 'curly horse' breed. Many people who are allergic to other breeds of horses find that they have little or no reaction with these breeds.
Finally, you could try medical testing or trial-and-error to determine which aspect of the horse you are allergic to and then simply take care to avoid this aspect. For example, if allergic to urine, rather than go into the stable to get your horse, have it brought out to you. As another example, if allergic to horse mites, have your horse and its box treated against mites, which should greatl
The article Allergy to Horses was written by Doug Stewart, as part of his series on Horse Care.
Related posts:
- Allergy Reliefs for a Symptoms Free Life
- What Causes Allergies And What Are The Symptoms of Allergies?
- The Symptoms of Allergies and What Causes Allergies
- Understanding the Relationship Between Asthma and Allergies
- Causes And Symptoms Of Asthma
Posted under Allergies
