In some people, this triggers an immune system reaction that later produces mild to severe allergic reactions.
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What Is Alpha-Gal?
Causes
A growing body of research suggests that an alpha-gal allergy may be triggered by tick bites.
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In some cases, a healthcare provider may also undertake an allergy skin test.
Alpha-gal allergy can be serious and potentially life-threatening, as it can causeanaphylaxis, which warrants immediate medical attention.
If you suspect you are experiencing a severe reaction, immediately see a healthcare provider.
You should:
Treatment
Treatment for alpha-gal allergy is typically through an allergist and other healthcare providers.
Avoiding further tick bites is important.
Treating allergic reactions may involve:
In severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis,adrenalineis used.
Those who are diagnosed with an alpha-gal allergy will usually be asked to not eat red meat.
Some people even need to avoid things like gelatin and cow’s milk that contain smaller amounts of alpha-gal.
Chicken and fish may still be eaten.
Alpha-gal can be present in some medications and vaccinations.
Prevention
The main prevention strategy for avoiding alpha-gal allergy is toavoid tick bites.
Ticks can be found in a number of places outdoors including:
Ticks can also be found on animals.
Being outside in the yard or walking the dog can potentially expose a person to ticks.
These include:
Checking the body for ticks after being outside is another important prevention strategy.
This can involve standing in front of a mirror or using a handheld mirror to search for ticks.
It may also cause an immediate reaction to medications containing the alpha-gal molecule.
The most effective method of preventing alpha-gal allergy is to avoid tick bites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Those with an alpha-gal allergy should avoid red meat and products that contain alpha-gal.
This can include things like gelatin and cow’s milk.
More research is needed to better understand the long-term implications of alpha-gal allergy.
At that time, it may be possible to attempt to reintroduce red meat.
People with a history of life-threatening anaphylaxis should not perform challenges at home without physician guidance.
It has also been reported all over the world.
2021 Dec 16;2:783279. doi: 10.3389/falgy.2021.783279
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Alpha-gal syndrome.
2021;12(3):101674. doi:10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101674
NHS.Anaphylaxis.
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.Alpha-gal and red meat allergy.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Preventing tick bites.
UNC School of Medicine.Alpha-gal allergy with Dr. Scott Commins.
