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Asthma/asthma
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Question
i have 28 cats which are living in the house and does not go out. i have asthma since 5 years old and since the past 6-7 months i have had asthma attacks very frequently, almost daily. My question is which of these two things causes the attack: a)cat furs or b)cat dander ?
By the way i'm 39 years of age. Thank you and have a nice day.
Hi Halim,
It is the cat dander. This is why there aren't any hypoallergenic dogs, cats, birds, etc. All living mammals shed skin, which is a protein substance, and allergies are over-reactions to foreign proteins.
By the way, should you get rid of the cats, the dander is so pervasive that it will take ~ 1 year of regular cleaning until you notice a difference. Better to take them to a shelter, and move to a fresh, clean dwelling.
Good luck!
Marc
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Marc Rubin, RPh Asthma Educator
Expertise
I have worked directly with patients as well as caregivers for over 30 years. Have made presentations throughout Illinois educating school nurses as well as the teaching and coaching staff of public schools about asthma, and how they should respond to these students needs. Presented a public education program on asthma through the US Department of Public Health. Specialize in helping guide asthmatic patients to take control of their disease in order to live a near-normal, fully active life.
Experience
Practicing pharmacist for 34 years, specializing in asthma for past 7 years. Statewide education to nurses, teachers and athletic coaches regarding asthma. In addition, and closer to home. my wife and daughter both have asthma, and my son has exercise induced bronchospasm. I'm also on the advisory board of a medical education company, Emmi Solutions, and directly involved in the creation of public education programs for asthma, COPD and diabetes.
Organizations
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) / Sports Medicine Committee, American Thoracic Society (ATS). Chicago Asthma Consortium / Professional Development Committee, Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago: Development Committee for AE-C prep class, and presenter.
Publications
AAAAI PowerPoint on the new guidelines for EIB (Exercise Induced Bronchospasm)
Education/Credentials
BScPharm, RPh, AE-C (NAECB Certified asthma educator), NIPCO Certified Respiratory Care Pharmacist
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