Allergy, Beef in Baguiati, Kolkata

Some food causes adverse reactions in the human body after consumption. While many people are allergic to food items like eggplant, egg, tomato, and different fruits, meat allergy is rare. Meat and poultry products are nutrient-rich, which is why they are a staple in many individuals' diets. It is a good source of protein, particularly red meat.

However, some people are allergic to red meat. It is referred to as the Alpha-gal syndrome, or commonly the beef allergy. Alpha-gal is a carbohydrate present in cells of most mammals, including cows, sheep, and pigs.

Beef allergy typically occurs in human beings in two cases, which include:

• A bite by the lone star tick, an insect found in places of the animal resting areas, and is the primary source of beef allergy.
• Consumption of red meat, particularly beef, can also cause symptoms of beef allergy.

In most food allergies, the symptoms usually appear within a few minutes. For instance, if you’re allergic to brinjal, you will see your body reacting as soon as you take a bite. But for the alpha-gal syndrome, the symptoms take time to appear.

Most beef allergy symptoms occur six to eight hours after meat consumption. The common symptoms include:

• Raised or puffy, itching skin, or beef allergy rash
• Inflammation of the different body parts, including lips, face, tongue, throat
• Runny nose and sneezing
• Throbbing pain in the head
• Pain in the abdomen, diarrhoea, or feeling of throwing up
• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
• Anaphylaxis

The symptoms of beef allergy vary from individual to individual. The condition can become severe if left untreated and even lead to death. Activities like workouts or light exercise after consuming meat may slow the allergy’s reaction time.

Alpha-gal syndrome may lead to anaphylaxis, which requires urgent medical care in the hospital. The signs and symptoms to look for in anaphylaxis are:

• Swelling of the throat that makes breathing difficult
• A significant drop in blood pressure (shock)
• A quick pulse
• Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or losing consciousness

Beef allergies can be challenging to detect. A blood test can be used to diagnose this allergy. A Beef Allergy Blood Test can detect the presence of alpha-gal antibodies in your bloodstream. This blood test method gives more accurate results than other testing methods for beef allergies, but results can take several days. It is best to avoid consumption of beef during this time.

When you visit your doctor, mention your food habit or previous allergic reactions. Also, do not forget to mention if you think you have been bitten by ticks or came in contact with them.

Apollo 24|7 offers Beef Allergy Test to individuals who want to get tested. The reports of the test are shared within eight days. The Beef Allergy Test procedure is similar to other allergy tests. A blood sample will be collected to identify the allergen. Your doctor may prescribe epinephrine if the condition is severe. You must avoid the trigger in mild cases and be mindful of your diet.