A woman exhibits allergy symptoms at her boyfriend's house due to pet exposure. What is the first-line management option?

The first-line management option for a person experiencing allergy symptoms, such as those triggered by pet exposure, is avoidance of the allergen. This approach directly addresses the source of the symptoms by minimizing or eliminating exposure to the offending agent—in this case, the pet allergens. Avoidance is fundamental in managing allergies because it eliminates the immediate cause of the allergic reaction, which can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

While medication options, such as oral second-generation antihistamines and intranasal corticosteroids, can help alleviate symptoms, they do not address the underlying issue of exposure. These treatments are typically used as adjuncts to avoidance strategies, rather than as first-line management. Decongestant nasal sprays can provide temporary relief for nasal congestion but do not treat the underlying allergy. Thus, avoidance is the most effective strategy for practical use in this scenario.