Alpha-gal syndrome (red meat allergy from tick bites)

Overview

The Lone Star tick causes the body to make antibodies to a sugar found in mammal meat.

Some people also react to dairy, gelatin, or some medicines.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Hives hours after red meat
• Hives or belly pain hours after eating red meat
• Hives or welts

Less common

• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea

Look up a symptom: Stomach pain

When to get medical care

Causes

Tick bites.

Who is more likely to get it

• Southern U.S.

Diagnosis

Blood test.

Treatment

Avoid red meat.

Self-care

• Read labels for gelatin and meat products

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

• Avoid tick bites

Which doctor treats this

• Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Education and online support for asthma, allergies, and eczema.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can go to school or work. Keep the wound clean and covered.
• Avoid pools and hot tubs until the skin heals.

Outlook

Manageable.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• Should I carry epinephrine?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Alpha-gal syndrome (red meat allergy from tick bites)