Red meat allergy (also called alpha-gal syndrome or AGS), is a potentially severe type of food allergy. With professional food allergy treatment it is possible to minimize the risk of anaphylaxis. But sometimes allergies can develop suddenly and trigger a response without warning. If you are suffering from red meat allergy symptoms in Atlanta, here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Red Meat Allergy?
Tick bites can cause a number of infections and diseases. In recent years, doctors and patients alike have noted an increase in allergic reactions to red meat as a result of tick bites. Primarily caused by the Lone Star tick of the U.S. southeast region, allergists say that the range of the tick is expanding. Recent tick bites that have resulted in red meat allergies have occurred in the northeastern United States. Many doctors hypothesize that the Lone Star tick causes red meat allergies through injecting humans with alpha gal when they bite, a sugar produced in the bodies of animals. When a human is exposed to alpha gal, the immune system becomes triggered to produce antibodies that fight against the presence of this sugar, which explains the allergic reaction to red meat and dairy products.
What Are the Main Symptoms of a Red Meat Allergy?
Symptoms of an allergic reaction of this type often include hives, trouble breathing and/or swallowing, stomachaches, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues. Sometimes, the symptoms can present serious concerns and major lifestyle disruptions. If you have any of these symptoms after consuming red meat or dairy, see a specialist. Allergists can perform blood tests for alpha gal if you suspect you have been exposed. Food allergy blood tests are accurate and help determine an effective treatment plan. For many, allergic symptoms of this type can relax over time, and some patients have been able to eat red meat again following exposure. Doctors say that decreasing exposure to the Lone Star tick will help prevent sudden allergic symptoms and enable many patients to consume red meat and dairy again safely. However, most people must avoid infection in order for symptoms in current patients to wane in this way.
As always, prevention is the best remedy. When outdoors in the southeast and other potentially tick-infested areas, wear long sleeves and pants, use bug spray, and avoid brushing up against tall grasses and bushy foliage. When returning from outdoor excursions, check the body for ticks, which tend to burrow in warm, moist parts of the body such as the armpits and groin. Preventing tick bites to begin with is the easiest way to avoid potential allergic reactions to alpha gal.
Management and Treatment of a Red Meat Allergy
Currently, there is no cure for red meat allergy. However, proper management and treatment can help individuals with this condition lead a healthy life. Allergists typically recommend avoiding foods containing alpha-gal, which include meats such as beef, lamb, pork and venison. Avoiding these foods can help prevent allergic reactions and their symptoms.
Individuals who suspect they have a red meat allergy should also undergo food allergy testing to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Results will help tailor their diet to ensure the appropriate allergen avoidance measures are implemented.
After an allergist has diagnosed a person with a red meat allergy, they may prescribe medications such as antihistamines to manage symptoms. These drugs can help alleviate itching, swelling and other allergy symptoms.
In addition, individuals with a red meat allergy often need to carry an epinephrine auto-injector for emergencies. Epinephrine can quickly reverse the severe symptoms of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. With proper management and care, individuals with red meat allergy can successfully address this condition to maintain their well-being.
Professional Food Allergy Treatments in Atlanta
Start treating your red meat and other food allergy symptoms with the help of the Chacko Food Allergy Treatment Center. Our allergy centers are located in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. For testing and treatment, call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment.
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