Alpha-Gal Syndrome: A Mysterious Illness Triggered by Tick Bites

A mysterious illness is affecting thousands of people, and many doctors are unaware of it. The illness, called Alpha-Gal Syndrome, is caused by a tick bite from a Lone Star tick. The tick bite injects a sugar molecule called alpha-gal into the person's bloodstream. This sugar molecule is similar to a sugar molecule found in red meat, and it can cause an allergic reaction when the person eats red meat.

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The Lone Star tick (pictured) is found primarily throughout the Eastern, Southeastern and South-Central states, according to the CDC. (iStock)

 The symptoms of Alpha-Gal Syndrome can vary from person to person, but they typically include hives, itching, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, the symptoms can be more severe, and they can include anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening allergic reaction.

There is no cure for Alpha-Gal Syndrome, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms. These treatments include antihistamines, steroids, and epinephrine.

The best way to prevent Alpha-Gal Syndrome is to avoid tick bites. This can be done by wearing long sleeves and pants when you are in tick-infested areas, using insect repellent, and checking for ticks after you have been outdoors.

If you think you have been bitten by a tick, it is important to see a doctor right away. The doctor can remove the tick and test you for Alpha-Gal Syndrome.

Alpha-Gal Syndrome is a relatively new illness, and it is not well-known by many doctors. The symptoms of Alpha-Gal Syndrome can be similar to other illnesses, so it can be difficult to diagnose. There is no cure for Alpha-Gal Syndrome, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms. The best way to prevent Alpha-Gal Syndrome is to avoid tick bites.

Here are some additional thoughts on the illness:

• Alpha-Gal Syndrome is a relatively new illness, and it is not well-known by many doctors.
• The symptoms of Alpha-Gal Syndrome can be similar to other illnesses, so it can be difficult to diagnose.
• There is no cure for Alpha-Gal Syndrome, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms.
• The best way to prevent Alpha-Gal Syndrome is to avoid tick bites.

If you have any questions or concerns about Alpha-Gal Syndrome, please talk to your doctor.