Animal Dander

I had normal skin my whole life. Better then most as far as reacting to anything and fast healing. I developed a rash in the worst place imaginable. I initially thought it was jock itch but after nine months and four dermatologists. They said it's eczema. I went for allergy testing and found out I was allergic to animal dander and dust mites. My rash hasn't responded to any medication and burns but doesn't itch. The symptoms have been persistent for eight months and recently I went to the Bahamas. Two days later the rash was gone. When I came home two days later it's back. Could an animal allergy cause a rash in an area without ever coming in contact with it?
I love my dog and will not get rid of her. What can I do to clean the dander? Do those filters work?

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

You should try taking antihistamine medications and applying calamine lotion at the lesions. Also try to avoid contact with your dog for a few days and wash all your clothes and linen and se if that helps to resolve the lesions.

It would be advisable to consult an allergy specialist and talk to him/her about your symptoms in detail.

Let us know how you are doing and about what the doctor advises.

Hope this helps.

Good luck.

[willy851]

Hello
Well that is part of my misunderstanding. I don't have any lesions and I don't itch. The area just turns light red and becomes irritated like a needle feeling. The skin gets tight and red for hours sometimes and then it goes away. The problem always goes away after a shower and gets worse during the day.
I did put the dog in another part of the house and stayed away from her. We shampooed the rugs and washed all the linens. My understanding is that the dander is everywhere. I thought about getting a room someplace, just to eliminate other possibilities, but my wife isn't to keen on that idea.
I am still not sure it is eczema, as it doesn't fit any definition I have read.

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

It appears that spending some time away from your dog in a separate place altogether might help you considerably. A friends or relatives place for a couple of days would be a good option. Also use a new set of clothes and other body effects when you stay away.  

Hygiene and use of calamine lotion and OTC anti-histamines would also help. If the symptoms persist, reconsult the doctor.

Let us know if you may have any query or what your doctor says.

Good luck.