Allergies
What is Atopy?
Many pets can be allergic to normally innocuous substances such as pollen, molds, house dust mites, and other environmental allergens. Commonly referred to as Atopy, this condition affects the skin and shows up as itchy, red, recurrent ear and skin infections. Allergies can also affect the eyes, respiratory, reproductive, and gastrointestinal systems.
How is Atopy diagnosed at AVDH?
Several other common conditions should be ruled out before pursuing Atopy. A skin scrape, cytology, and fungal cultures are used to rule out infectious causes for itching. Once Atopy is suspected, an allergy test can be done to identify environmental and food allergens responsible for the condition. All tests and treatments for allergies are conducted in hospital.
How do we treat Atopy?
After a proper diagnostic workup, the appropriate therapy can begin. Dietary changes can be made and appropriate medication can be prescribed to control skin irritation. Allergy shots or immunosuppressive therapy is necessary in many cases. Atopy is a life-long disease and controlling flare-ups is our goal.
If you wish to learn more, we invite you to call us at (512) 288-1040. We look forward to hearing from you!