To consider this...

[firenze86]

I have been suffering from sinusitis (or so I thought) on and off for the last year, on average about once a month and 4 of those times have lasted weeks and ive had to have time off work etc. Symptoms include horrible headaches, sore face and jaw and breathlessness. Two weeks ago I went to the dr again with suspected sinusitis and she diagnosed me with an allergy to my dog :( he’s a one year old cocker spaniel and absolutely love him. What shall I do? It would really break my heart to re home him but I can’t put up with the symptoms either. None of my family or friends would take him so rehoming him would pretty much mean never seeing him again. AIBU to consider this? I feel so sad and guilty but also 13 months of suffering has taken its toll on me!

Diagnosed you based on what? Have you had proper allergy testing?

Oh you poor love.

I would definitely get a formal allergy test before considering re-homing him.

But if it is an allergy, can you try anti-histamines to see if that alleviates the symptoms? Mind you, I don't know if you can take them long term.

Based on timing (I was ill from around 2 weeks after getting him onwards), the medication that works on me (antihistamines), symptoms (all point towards allergic reaction) and circumstance (when I have been away for a couple of weeks at a time I have no symptoms)

I haven’t had allergy testing but will request before making any final decisions just to be 100% certain

I have antihistamines and steroid spray which help a little but I hate the idea of taking them for the next 12-14 years

Lots of people have to take those every day though. People with dust allergy etc. Try wearing a mask to groom the dog and doing it regularly, or get the dog groomed professionally regularly. Be thorough vacuuming and dusting. I think you can get a dog wash that reduces the allergens. You may be able to manage it with minimal antihistamines and steroids.

There's a product called PetalCleanse which you wipe over their coats after brushing. I've found this works well. I have similar symptoms. They also do a spray for the air and one you add to your washing machine when cleaning their bed/blankets.

Thank you! Rehoming him really would be a last resort so I will definitely look into these. He’s not allowed on the sofas or upstairs and I’ve been hoovering and dusting like crazy. I didn’t know you could get the dog shampoo or stuff to wash their beds in so I will definitely get some!

I hope it works!

Do you have anyone that could take him for a short term trial or kennel to make sure you are definitely allergic before making a final decision?

Rinsing your sinuses with saline solution is very helpful for sinusitis.

www.ebay.co.uk/itm/NeilMed-Sinus-Rinse-Starter-Kit-Nasal-Irrigation-Relief-All-Natural-10-Sachets/111850798048?epid=1738460841&hash=item1a0ad3bbe0