Everything you need to know about the Alpha-Gal Syndrome

Have you suffered through or know someone who is suffering from the Alpha-Gal Syndrome? Do you need to understand its symptoms and how you can treat them? In this blog, we will decode everything you need to know about the Alpha-Gal Syndrome.

Multidisciplinary Snot Force Alliance Webcast with Allergist Dr. Lee Clore

The recent Snot Force Assemble! CME webcast explored Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) with Dr. Lee S. Clore, Jr of Allergy and Asthma Specialists, PSC in Owensboro, KY. Multiple specialties, including allergists, otolaryngologists, and pulmonologists, were on hand to discuss with interesting condition.
 
What is the Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS)?

Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS), or alpha-gal allergy as it is commonly known, is a mammal meat allergy or a tick bite meat allergy. Alpha-gal reactions can become serious, potentially life-threatening allergic reactions. Alpha-Gal Syndrome was first recognized in the U.S. but is becoming more common in other regions.
 
It occurs when people eat mammal meat or are exposed to products that contain alpha-gal, which is a sugar molecule found in most mammals. Alpha-gal occurs after the bite of a lone star or black-legged tick. However, additional research is required to understand the role of ticks in triggering AGS in some people.
 
Typical Symptoms of AGS:

The common symptoms of AGS include:

• Hives
• Heartburn or indigestion
• A drop in blood pressure
• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Nausea
• Cough, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing
• Dizziness
• Swelling of lips, throat, tongue, or eyelids
• Severe stomach pain

 
The symptoms of Alpha-Gal Syndrome typically occur anywhere between 2-8 hours of eating mammal meat products. The reactions differ from person to person, with some people experiencing mild symptoms and others experiencing more serious symptoms. Some people might experience Anaphylaxis which can be fatal if not treated in time. To prevent the condition from becoming more serious, immediate care should be given if anyone is showing symptoms.
 
It is always advisable to seek medical attention if you're having a severe allergic reaction. To understand if you have AGS or not, your allergist may ask for detailed patient history, do a thorough physical examination, and even do a blood test to look for specific AGS anti-bodies in your blood. Furthermore, they may recommend an allergy skin test. It should be noted that AGS does not cause any infection.
 
How to treat AGS?

Here are some useful tips on how to prevent and treat AGS:

• If you have AGS, please consult your doctor or a qualified allergist who can help treat it.
• Try avoiding foods that contain alpha-gal. Some examples include meat such as beef, venison, pork, lamb, rabbit, cow’s milk, milk products, gelatin, etc. Ask for a list of foods to avoid from your healthcare provider.
• Prevent tick bites by avoiding grassy or bushy areas, treating clothes with permethrin, checking your clothes for ticks, and cleaning yourself up once you are indoors.

 
 
If you're looking to interact with different specialists who treat sinus, allergy, and airway conditions, join Snot Force Alliance Inc. Our meetings and research are helping medical professionals treat patients betters. 
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