If you take care of pets, you are already aware of how crucial it is to practice workplace safety in order to safeguard both yourself and your customers.
Every groomer should be aware of the condition known as groomers lung so they can take the necessary precautions to prevent it.
Continue reading for a list of six suggestions to keep you safe and healthy. Be sure to be aware of the dangers related to this pet groomers lung disease.
What is pet dander?
The Mayo Clinic sums it up like this: “pet allergies are triggered by exposure to the dead flakes of skin (dander) a pet sheds. Any animal with fur can be a source of pet allergies. Pet allergies are most commonly associated with cats and dogs.” That means those dead flakes of skin are getting everywhere: the carpet, the bed, the couch, and even into the atmosphere.
Other allergens may not linger in the air as long as pet dander and other pet allergens. This is because their tiny size and jagged shape make it simple for them to become airborne, stick to fabrics, furniture, and bedding, and even be carried on objects brought into and taken out of the house.
A pet allergy is best managed by limiting exposure and avoiding contact. If being around the animal is unavoidable, make sure all furniture, carpets, and clothing are cleaned promptly and frequently after contact to avoid the pet dander from lingering. If you came into contact with the animal directly, wash your hands or even take a bath. Brush your pet away from the asthmatic person in a room with no windows. To reduce the amount of allergens in the air, you can also designate an area as a pet-free zone and use air cleaners.
Consult your healthcare provider about medications if your symptoms are still not under control. Many over-the-counter decongestants and antihistamines work well, but in more serious cases corticosteroids or leukotriene modifiers may be beneficial. The best way to decide what to do is to consult an allergist and get tested for allergies.
Wearing a Mask is Essential
Most pet groomers don’t wear a mask or face covering while doing their job, but it’s one of the most important tools you can use to keep you safe and healthy. Always wear a close-fitting mask that hugs your face whenever you’re cutting pet hair, combing, or blow-drying.
To filter out the airborne dust, dander, parasites, and tiny hairs, look for a groomers lung mask made of a fine gauze material. These tiny particles can still easily find their way into your lungs if your mask is too loose or not made of a fine-gauze material.
For pet groomers, a face shield is insufficient because it leaves a sizable space between your face and the environment. To stay cool and comfortable all day, look for a soft cloth mask made from a lightweight, moisture-wicking material.
To prevent the accumulation of hair and particles, you should wash your mask every day. If you wear the same mask every day without washing it, you run the risk of unintentionally breathing in the hair and other debris that have accumulated on it throughout the day.
Buy several of the same kinds of masks so you can switch them out every day. Just remember to follow the washing instructions on all the masks you used during the week so you can start over.
FAQ
Can dog hair irritate your lungs?
Pet dander can potentially harm your respiratory system in addition to causing itchy eyes and a runny nose. This may “lead to a decline in the ability of the lungs to function,” according to the American Lung Association. Make sure you and your loved ones are secure; let’s begin with the fundamentals.
Can dog hair make it hard to breathe?
People with pet allergies will experience symptoms similar to swollen nasal passages. This includes breathing difficulties, itchy or watery eyes, a runny or stuffy nose, and sneezing. Pet dander can cause contact dermatitis, a skin rash, hives, or it can set off an asthma attack in people who come into physical contact with it.
What are the side effects of dog hair?
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Symptoms of Dog Allergies
- coughing and wheezing.
- red, itchy eyes.
- runny, itchy, stuffy nose.
- sneezing.
Can dog hair cause coughing?
Cats and dogs are primarily to blame for pet allergies. However, they’re not the only animals that can cause you to sneeze and cough. Any pet with hair or fur has the potential to cause an allergic reaction.