Mammalian Meat Allergy (Alpha-gal Syndrome)

Hypersensitivity type may be- Type I Allergy
Immune reactions may be from- IgE
Reactions may occur in- Minutes (Can have a delayed onset of symptoms)

Mammalian Meat Allergy is also known as Alpha-gal Syndrome (AGS) or Alpha-gal Allergy. Mammalian Meat Allergy is caused by being sensitised earlier (being bitten earlier) by the Paralysis Tick.

When people with this allergy consume mammalian meat, a reaction is caused by the Alpha-gal sugar molecule found in the meat. This causes causing an allergic reaction that can range from minor to severe and life-threatening. Mammalian Meat Allergy reactions are similar to those of other food allergies. However, unlike other food allergies, it may, in some cases, have a delayed onset of symptoms 2-10 hours from ingestion. 

What are Mammals? Mammals are a diverse group, but they all are vertebrates that produce milk to feed their young, have hair or fur, have a unique jaw structure and are warm-blooded.

Mammals include Cows, Pigs, Kangaroos, Sheep, Goats, Deer, Rabbit, etc. From mammals, people consume beef, pork, lamb, etc.

While this allergy occurs through foods containing Alpha-gal, it may also occur through exposure to products containing Alpha-gal, such as gelatin-coated medications and mammalian milk (Cows Milk, Goats Milk, etc).

SYMPTOMS
Some of the symptoms may be characterised by:

• Stomach pain
• Stomach cramps
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Trouble swallowing
• Itching of the mouth, throat, eyes, skin or any other area
• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose
• Nausea
• Urticaria/ Hives
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Asthma aggravation
• ANAPHYLAXIS

The validity and severity of these symptoms are dependent on the individual and the level of exposure, as determined by a qualified health care provider.

TREATMENT
If you experience or are in the presence of someone that encounters an immediate serious reaction (this may include difficulty breathing, wheezing, throat tightening, swelling, collapse, etc), call or have someone call triple zero (000) immediately.

In the case of a minor allergic reaction, people may use Antihistamines along with other medications based on their individual symptoms and prescribed treatments.

For severe allergic reactions Epinephrine may be used, followed by seeking emergency medical attention. However, some people may not be able to use Epinephrine due to particular reasons.

It’s important for anyone with an Allergy, to discuss treatments with a qualified health care provider to understand how to manage individual allergies and also to set up an Allergy Action Plan in the case of a reaction.

Always present your Allergy Card, Medical Alert Bracelet or Necklace to ensure health care providers, family members, friends, colleagues and others are aware of your Allergy or Allergies.

TESTING
A blood test may be used to test for Mammalian Meat Allergy. This may be tested in conjunction with other testing as requested by your health care provider.

LABELLING
Some labels or terms you may come across on Mammalian Meat Allergy friendly products:
"Meat Free" "Vegan"

RANDOM ALLERGY FACT
The Australian Tick can be about 1cm long and may be a grey-blue colour.

The information provided on Allergy Life Australia is to generally educate and inform you about living with allergies, intolerances and conditions, and is not intended as medical instruction or as a substitute for diagnosis, examination and advice by a qualified health care provider.

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HAVE YOU HAD AN EXPERIENCE WITH MAMMALIAN MEAT ALLERGY OR KNOW SOMEONE THAT HAS? LET US KNOW IN THE COMMENTS BELOW