An alpha-gal allergy, also known as Alpha-gal Syndrome, is an immune condition which causes an allergic reaction to foods that contain the alpha-gal carbohydrate. The most common foods that contain alpha-gal carbohydrates include red meats like beef and pork, milk and other dairy products, and gelatin.
An alpha-gal allergy is unique because it is caused by getting bitten by a lone star tick. The tick’s saliva contains alpha-gal and other components that can cause your immune system to begin reacting to the alpha-gal carbohydrate. That is why this allergy can appear suddenly, even if you have never had allergies before. For most people, this allergic condition goes away over time, but for others it lasts the rest of their lives.
An alpha-gal allergy can cause any of these symptoms, usually within 2 to 6 hours after eating a food containing the alpha-gal carbohydrate:
If you experience any of the symptoms listed above after eating red meat, dairy or gelatin products, you may have an alpha-gal allergy. However, those symptoms are also common to many other types of allergies. The only way to determine what type of allergy is causing your discomfort is to see an experienced allergist for evaluation and testing.
At Bluegrass Allergy Care, we have over 25 years of experience in helping Central Kentucky families find relief from common and uncommon allergies. We can determine if your symptoms are from alpha-gal, or caused by other common allergens, and prescribe an effective prevention plan.
