Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of an alpha-gal allergic reaction are often delayed compared with other food allergies. Most reactions to common food allergens — peanuts or shellfish, for example — happen within minutes of exposure. In alpha-gal syndrome, reactions usually appear about three to six hours after exposure. Red meat, such as beef, pork or lamb; organ meats; and products made from mammals, such as gelatins or dairy products, can cause a reaction.

Signs and symptoms of alpha-gal syndrome may include:

• Hives, itching, or itchy, scaly skin (eczema)
• Swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat, or other body parts
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• A runny nose
• Stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting
• Sneezing
• Headaches
• A severe, potentially deadly allergic reaction that restricts breathing(anaphylaxis)

Doctors think the time delay between eating red meat and developing an allergic reaction is one reason the condition was overlooked until recently. A possible connection between a T-bone steak with dinner and hives at midnight was far from obvious.

When to see a doctor

See your primary care doctor or a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies (allergist) if you experience food allergy symptoms after eating — even several hours after eating. Don't rule out red meat as a possible cause of your reaction, especially if you live or spend time outdoors in the southeastern United States or in other parts of the world where alpha-gal syndrome is known to occur.

Seek emergency medical treatment if you develop signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as:

• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid, weak pulse
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Drooling and inability to swallow
• Full-body redness and warmth (flushing)