What is alpha-gal syndrome?

It is a serious allergic condition after ingesting various types of meat, especially red meat, and other animal products, after being bitten by a tick known as lone star, which injects a sugar molecule called alpha-gal. It causes potentially fatal immune reactions after consuming meat and dairy products, among other animal products.

Products that can cause an allergic reaction are:

• Red meats:
  • Beef.
  • Pork.
  • Lamb.
• Animal organs.
• Gelatin.
• Dairy.

The condition usually appears between two and six hours after consuming foods that react to alpha-gal, with the following symptoms:

• Heartburn or indigestion.
• Fainting.
• Diarrhea.
• Abdominal pain.
• Shortness of breath.
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or eyelids.
• Dizziness.
• Nausea.
• Rash.
• Itch.
• Cough.
• Vomit.

The greatest risk that alpha-gal syndrome can trigger is a serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, which if not treated in time can be fatal.

As there is no specific treatment, it is essential to go to the Emergency Room to be evaluated immediately and receive medical attention to avoid risks and complications.

Once the doctor analyzes the symptoms, they will perform a physical examination and order blood and skin tests for relevant animal proteins to confirm the diagnosis.

Alpha-gal syndrome treatment involves avoiding foods that cause the reaction, as well as certain medications to treat the symptoms.

Some people with this condition can resume eating animal products after a couple of years, as long as they do not suffer further tick bites.

In ABC Medical Center Internal Medicine Department, we provide you with health care services with the highest quality and safety, from prevention, diagnosis, timely treatment, and follow-up of infectious, respiratory, endocrinological, dermatological, rheumatic, nephrological, gastrointestinal, and hematological conditions, both chronic-degenerative and acute, through a comprehensive and multidisciplinary model.

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