Allergic to guinea pigs or not?

I think I'm allergic to guinea pigs, do you agree?

• I was holding a guinea pig and letting it on my neck, well my neck where it had been crawling was bumpy (rash). My eye was itchy so I rubbed it. My eye started to itch and burn. I went to bed and the next day my eye was red and my neck got a little better. Would I be allergic to guinea pigs? I'm not allergic to any other rodent, why guinea pigs?

• Answer:

  I think you are allergic to the guinea pig because the syptoms are itchy eyes sneezing runny nose persistent cough shortness of breath, wheezing, a skin rash and anaphylactic shock (a true medical emergency). Don't Blame the Hair Allergies are caused by exposure to proteins that are normally present in the animal's saliva or urine, or in secretions from glands in the skin. That's why an allergic person should never clean the cage. Contrary to popular belief, the animal's hair or dander do not themselves cause allergies, although they do make excellent airborne carriers for the offending proteins. Many experts say there is no good evidence that short-haired animals cause fewer allergies than long-haired, or that one breed is better than another. Suggestions See an allergist. Get tested for guinea pig allergies. When you call the allergist to make an appointment, be sure to tell them you want to be tested for guinea pigs as they may need to order the serum. Immunotherapy (allergy shots) for guinea pigs is the best option as successful treatment is a cure rather than treating symptoms with drugs. Treatment can take up to 18 months. It is likely to be covered on your health insurance policy. Asthma sufferers may enjoy relief, as immunotherapy offers a chance for a cure of allergies, which trigger asthma attacks for many. If you do not test positive for guinea pig allergies, work with your allergist to determine a cause. You may be allergic to the hay. You may be allergic to pine or aspen bedding (if you use it). Some people have switched from pine bedding to aspen bedding and their allergy symptoms go away! Many have switched from pine to CareFresh or Yesterday's News and their allergies go away. Location Do not keep your guinea pig in your bedroom. Do not store your hay in the house.