Spend Time In The Woods? 4 Things You Need To Know About Alpha-Gal Syndrome
If you enjoy getting back to nature and participate in activities like hiking, camping, or hunting, you may be at an increased risk for a medical disorder known as Alpha-Gal Syndrome. This syndrome can have a devastating impact on your life. Alpha-Gal Syndrome is an allergy to meat. Alpha-Gal is a sugar that is usually found in red meat, including mutton, beef, and lamb. It can also be found in venison. Here are four things you need to know about Alpha-Gal Syndrome.
You Get Alpha-Gal Syndrome From Ticks
As stated earlier, if you spend a lot of time outdoors, you should know about Alpha-Gal Syndrome. This is because Alpha-Gal Syndrome can be acquired from tick bites; specifically, lone star tick bites. However, you might also be able to contract the syndrome from chigger bites, as well. Unfortunately, once you develop the syndrome, it will be permanent.
You Need to Know the Symptoms of the Syndrome
If you have been bit by a lone star tick, you need to be aware of the symptoms associated with Alpha-Gal Syndrome. Being aware of the symptoms can help you seek treatment in a timely manner. Some of the symptoms associated with Alpha-Gal Syndrome include hives, swelling on your lips, face or eyelids, and wheezing. You can also develop more serious symptoms which include shortness of breath, abdominal pain, and vomiting. If you develop any of those symptoms after being bitten by a lone star tick, you should be tested for Alpha-Gal Syndrome.
There are Treatment Options for Alpha-Gal Syndrome
If you have developed Alpha-Gal Syndrome after being bitten by a lone star tick, there are treatment options available to you. In extreme cases, your doctor may need to prescribe allergy medication for the condition. However, allergy symptoms can be avoided by eliminating problem foods from your diet. More specifically, you should avoid red meats, and foods containing meat byproducts, such as beef gravy mixes, or bouillon.
You Can Prevent Exposure to Alpha-Gal Syndrome
If you are worried about developing Alpha-Gal Syndrome, you should know that there are ways to avoid it. This includes taking care when going out into wilderness areas where ticks are more likely to be found. Some ways to protect yourself include wearing long pants, and long-sleeved shirts when you go hiking. Also, you should wear a tick repellent when you are going to be in areas where ticks may be found.