Does keeping a hamster affect rhinitis?
Sep 26, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, whether keeping a hamster affects rhinitis depends on the patient's specific condition. If the patient has allergic rhinitis, having a hamster may have an impact; however, for other types of rhinitis, it usually does not cause any effect. If the patient develops discomfort symptoms, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital to avoid delaying treatment.
In general, whether keeping a hamster affects rhinitis depends on the patient's specific condition. If the patient has allergic rhinitis, keeping a hamster may have an impact; however, if the rhinitis is of another type, it usually will not be affected. The detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Yes, it may have an effect
Allergic rhinitis is a non-infectious inflammatory disease of the nasal mucosa mediated by IgE-triggered release of mediators after atopic individuals are exposed to allergens. If a patient has allergic rhinitis and is allergic to animal fur or dander, it is generally not recommended to keep a hamster, as doing so might trigger an allergic rhinitis attack.
2. No, it usually does not have an effect
Rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal mucosa caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens, various physical and chemical factors, or certain systemic diseases. If the patient has mild rhinitis and no allergy to animal fur, keeping a hamster typically has no adverse effect and will not worsen the symptoms of rhinitis.
If a patient experiences any discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to avoid delaying treatment.
