What Is Alpha-Gal Syndrome?

Alpha-gal is a molecule which is found in mammals such as cows, pigs, deer, etc. (but it is not found in humans). Alpha Gal Syndrome is an allergic response which occurs after eating mammal meat or products which contain alpha-gal following a tick bite. This is most commonly associated with bites from a lone star tick, and less commonly from blacklegged tick or western blacklegged ticks.

When a tick bites someone, the alpha-gal molecule from its saliva can be transferred into the person's blood. The alpha-gal molecule may then be seen as a threat by the immune system and may trigger an allergic reaction. If an immune response does occur, symptoms are then typically seen later after people eat red meat or are exposed to other products made from mammals which contain alpha-gal.

Symptoms to Watch For

Symptoms may not appear for weeks or even months following a tick bite. When they do occur, they generally appear 2-6 hours after exposure and may include:

• Hives or itchy rash
• Nausea or vomiting
• Severe stomach pain
• Heartburn or indigestion
• Diarrhea
• Cough, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing
• Drop in blood pressure
• Swelling of the lips, throat, tongue, or eye lids
• Dizziness or faintness
• A combination of symptoms referred to as anaphylaxis

How It’s Diagnosed

Diagnosing Alpha Gal Syndrome (AGS) involves a combination of clinical assessment and allergy testing: 

1. Medical History: Your healthcare provider will take a detailed history of symptoms, exposure to ticks, and dietary habits, particularly the consumption of red meat and mammalian products.
2. Allergy Testing: Blood tests can detect specific antibodies (IgE) to alpha-gal. A positive test indicates an allergy to the sugar molecule.
3. Symptom Diary: You may be asked to keep a diary of symptoms related to food intake to identify triggers. 

Treatment & Management

Currently, there is no cure for AGS, but management focuses on avoiding triggers and treating symptoms: 

1. Avoidance: The primary treatment is strict avoidance of red meat, including beef, pork, lamb, and related products. Also, avoid certain dairy products and gelatin, as they may contain alpha-gal. New tick bites should be avoided as well as this can reactivate allergic reactions.

2. Antihistamines: For mild allergic reactions (such as hives or itching), over-the-counter antihistamines can help alleviate symptoms.

3. Epinephrine: Individuals at risk of severe reactions should carry an epinephrine auto-injector (like an EpiPen) and be trained in its use for emergencies.

4. Monitoring: Levels should be repeated every 6-12 months, as they may decline. 

Prevention: Protect Yourself from Tick Bites

• Repellents: Use permethrin on clothing/gear. Use Environmental Protection Agency registered insect repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. Always make sure to follow the product instructions. Products containing OLE or PMD SHOULD NOT BE USED on children under 3 years old. When used as directed, EPA-registered insect repellents are proven safe and effective, even for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
• Protective Clothing: Wear long sleeves and pants when in wooded areas, and tuck pants into socks to reduce skin exposure.
• Tick Checks: Conduct thorough tick checks after being outdoors, especially in areas known for tick activity. Remove any attached ticks promptly.
• Landscaping: Keep yards clean and well-maintained to reduce tick habitats.

If you have further questions about alpha-gal talk to your provider!

References
CDC. (2025). About alpha-gal syndrome. https://www.cdc.gov/alpha-gal-syndrome/about/index.html
CDC. (2025). Symptoms of alpha-gal syndrome. https://www.cdc.gov/alpha-gal-syndrome/signs-symptoms/index.html
Propst, S., Thompson, D. (2025). Alpha-gal syndrome and the gastrointestinal reaction: A narrative review. Front Allergy. doi: 10.3389/falgy.2025.1535103. PMID: 39927113; PMCID: PMC11802538.