Alpha-gal Syndrome
Alpha-gal Syndrome: What Parents Should Know
Over the past several months, Alpha-gal Syndrome has received increased attention in the news and on social media, leading many parents to wonder whether they should be concerned about this rare allergy linked to the bite of the lone star tick. Dr. Lily Joseph answers all your questions about this tick-borne problem.
What Is Alpha-gal Syndrome?
Alpha-gal Syndrome is an allergy to a naturally occurring sugar molecule called alpha-gal, which is found in the meat of mammals such as beef, pork, lamb, and veal. Some people with Alpha-gal Syndrome may also react to other mammal-derived products, including gelatin or certain dairy products, although this is not the case for everyone. Researchers believe that in some people, a bite from the lone star tick triggers the immune system to become sensitive to alpha-gal.
Why Is It Different from Other Food Allergies?
One of the unique features of Alpha-gal Syndrome is that symptoms are often delayed. Unlike many food allergies that cause symptoms within minutes, reactions to alpha-gal typically occur 3 to 8 hours after eating mammalian meat. This delay can make it more difficult to recognize the connection between a meal and the symptoms.
What Symptoms Can Occur?
Symptoms vary from person to person and may include:
• Hives or itching
• Swelling of the lips or face
• Stomach pain
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Severe allergic reaction including anaphylaxis
How Is It Diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves an allergist (like our very-own Dr. Jeong) and includes:
• A review of your child’s symptoms and medical history
• Discussion of possible tick exposure
• A blood test that looks for antibodies to alpha-gal
How can I protect my family?
The top way to prevent alpha-gal and other tick-borne illnesses is to avoid tick bites altogether. See our in-depth tick tips here. As always, if you have questions or are worried your child may have alpha-gal syndrome, don’t hesitate to call and speak with your child’s doctor!
