Dander

Definition and Composition of Dander
– Dander is material shed from animals with fur, hair, or feathers.
– It is similar to dandruff, which consists of visible flakes.
– Dander comes from the body of an animal, while dandruff comes from the scalp.
– Dander is composed of epithelial skin cells from the stratum corneum.
– Shedding dander is a normal part of skin replacement.

Allergic Reactions to Dander
– Dander is microscopic and can be airborne in house dust.
– It can enter the nose and lungs, causing allergies in susceptible individuals.
– Allergies are often triggered by proteins from dust mites that live on dander.
– Dander buildup in carpets and mattresses can worsen allergies.
– Airborne allergies affect a significant percentage of adults and children.

Managing Dander and Allergies
– Damp dusting and vacuuming with HEPA filters reduce dander dust in the air.
– Sealed vacuum cleaner bodies prevent re-distribution of dander.
– Smooth surfaces are easier to control for dander buildup.
– Allergy relief measures can help alleviate symptoms caused by dander.
– Regular cleaning and maintenance can minimize dander accumulation.

Etymology of Dander
– Dander may be a dialect synonym of dandruff, possibly from Yorkshire, England.
– The older etymology of dander suggests a connection to dandruff.

Related Topics and Resources
– Allergy to cats is a related topic to dander allergies.
– Allergy to dogs can also cause allergic reactions similar to dander allergies.
– Dandruff, a condition affecting the scalp, is related to dander.
– Powder down, a specialized type of dander found in certain birds, is another related topic.
– Additional references and external links provide further information on dander and allergies.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dander