Alpha-Gal Syndrome in Richmond, VA

Alpha-Gal Syndrome is a condition linked to tick bites that can cause an allergy to mammalian meat. At Vitality Acupuncture & Natural Medicine, we help patients understand this condition and explore treatment options that may support long-term relief.

What Is Alpha-Gal?

Alpha-Gal (galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose) is a sugar molecule found in most mammals, but not in humans, apes, or monkeys.

It is found in mammal-derived products such as:

Red meat
Dairy products
Gelatin
Certain medications, vaccines, and cosmetics

Ticks acquire Alpha-Gal after feeding on mammals such as cows and sheep
Alpha-Gal is passed to humans through subsequent tick bites
In some individuals, this exposure leads to Alpha-Gal syndrome

Allergic reactions may range from mild to severe
Triggered by eating red meat (beef, pork, lamb, venison, rabbit)
Reactions may also occur from mammal-derived products including cosmetics, medications, vaccines, gelatin, and dairy products
Symptoms may not occur after every exposure
People of all ages can be affected
Cases are increasing across the United States, particularly along the East Coast

Symptoms may appear up to 12 hours after eating red meat
This happens because Alpha-Gal is digested and absorbed more slowly than other allergens
Unlike most food allergies, reactions are often delayed

Hives, itching, eczema
Lightheadedness or fainting
Shortness of breath
Low blood pressure
Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, throat, or other body areas
Nasal congestion, sneezing, headaches

Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Nausea
Vomiting

In rare cases, Alpha-Gal can trigger a serious, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires urgent care.

Symptoms may include:

Sudden drop in blood pressure
Swelling of the throat or airway
Difficulty breathing
Dizziness or fainting
Loss of consciousness

Immediate treatment with epinephrine (EpiPen) may be required.

Avoidance of red meat, dairy, and Alpha-Gal–containing products
Symptom management with antihistamines and corticosteroids
Emergency care required for severe reactions

SAAT (Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment)
A specialized therapy developed by Dr. Nader Soliman
Designed to help reduce sensitivity to Alpha-Gal
May help provide long-term relief for some patients

Learn more about our acupuncture services for additional support.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are experiencing symptoms of Alpha-Gal syndrome or looking for treatment options in Richmond, VA, contact our clinic to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options.

Alpha-Gal Syndrome in Richmond, VA

What Is Alpha-Gal?

Schedule a Consultation

Vitality Acupuncture & Natural Medicine

Phone Number

Email Address