Unfortunately, we are hearing the words “Alpha Gal Syndrome” more and more these days. If you have been diagnosed with it, you know the difficulties it can present in your daily quality of life.
What is it?
Alpha Gal Syndrome is developed from a tick bite that renders its victim allergic to mammalian products (beef, lamb, pork, dairy, gelatin, etc.) and other products that contain isotopes of the Alpha Gal molecule. This reaction is an IgE mediated allergy to a sugar molecule that is present in many mammals, with the exception of humans, apes, and other organisms. When a tick bites a human, it can inject Alpha Gal into the bloodstream of the human, creating the allergy.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of Alpha Gal range from mild to deadly. Many people have suffered anaphylactic reactions to mammalian products after being inflicted with Alpha Gal. It is tricky to diagnose because most symptoms, especially GI symptoms, will occur hours after being exposed to foods or products that cause a reaction. There is a blood test that can confirm a diagnosis of Alpha Gal Syndrome. In many cases, Alpha Gal will also coincide with or create MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome). Symptoms can range from itching, hives, flushing, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, reflux/heartburn, dizziness, joint pain, shortness of breath, headaches/migraines, to anaphylaxis.
How can Acupuncture help with AGS?
While there is currently no cure for Alpha Gal, there are treatments to help manage the symptoms. SAAT (Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment) has been studied and proven effective in the treatment of Alpha Gal. Dr. Selena traveled to D.C. to study directly with Dr. Soliman to learn this incredible treatment.
SAAT employs kinesiology as a testing method to identify what systems in the body are having reactions to Alpha Gal. Once those systems are identified, tiny needles are placed in the outer portion of the ear in very specific points. It can take anywhere from 1 single needle to several, but these needles are then secured in place with AGS safe adhesives, and are left in for 3-4 weeks to retrain the immune system on how to respond when exposed to Alpha Gal. Dr. Selena has effectively treated many patients with this method, and they are so grateful to be able to get back to a life where they aren’t living in fear of being exposed to foods or products containing Alpha Gal.
Please note that this is not a CURE and will not eradicate Alpha Gal from your body, but rather decrease the severity and frequency of symptoms if you are exposed, putting you into remission. While some people choose to reintroduce mammalian products back into their life following successful treatment with SAAT, Dr. Selena will never recommend those with a confirmed allergy to mammal to purposefully expose themselves to Alpha Gal, even after treatment.
