Complete Guide to Red Meat Allergy in Children

Steak, hamburgers, pork, lamb, venison, and other red meat are tasty and nutritious protein sources for most people. But for some children, eating red meat can lead to anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction. Red meat allergy in children is rare, affecting about one in 100 children who have allergies to food. Also known as alpha-gal allergy, this is an allergy to the sugar found in red meat. The allergy is not related to the red color of the meat. Kids with this allergy develop antibodies against sugar. Here is a complete guide to red meat allergy in children.

Complete Guide to Red Meat Allergy in Children

1.  Causes

Red meat allergy in children is caused by a sugar called galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose, alpha-gal for short, found in red meat. Sugar is also found in some dairy products and the bladders of certain farm animals, such as cows, pigs, and sheep. When someone with a red meat allergy eats red meat or dairy products that contain alpha-gal, the immune system mistakenly treats the sugar as if it were a harmful substance and releases antibodies against it. These antibodies can cause symptoms of an allergic reaction when they reencounter alpha-gal. It can develop at any age and affects boys and girls equally.

2.  Signs and Symptoms

The child will experience hives or rash on the face, neck, arms, legs, or other body parts. This may be followed by shortness of breath. The eyelids may swell, and the child may have a runny nose. The child may also experience vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Depending on the extent of the allergy, the child may also experience dizziness, lightheadedness, and trouble breathing. The condition can lead to significant symptoms that could cause the child to miss school or be unable to play with their friends. The child may also develop anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction requiring immediate medical attention.

3.  Diagnosis

A skin prick test can make a diagnosis of the allergy. The test is done by pricking the child's skin with a small needle and then applying a drop of blood from the prick to a special device that measures the amount of alpha-gal in the blood. The test involves one prick for every 20 ml of blood tested. The doctor may repeat the prick test more than once to ensure the results are as accurate as possible. Another way to diagnose the allergy is by blood tests which involve taking a sample of the child's blood and testing it for the presence of antibodies. In some cases, doctors may also use an immunoassay that detects the amount of alpha-gal in the child's blood. To do this, they will draw a small sample of the child's blood and then use a laboratory test to detect the amount of alpha-gal in the sample. The test can be accomplished on an outpatient basis. If you suspect your child has a red meat allergy, an ENT doctor in Philadelphia can confirm the diagnosis and help you determine the best course of action.

4.  Prevention and Treatment

There is no cure for red meat allergy in children, but treatments are available for the symptoms. The best way to prevent the allergy is to avoid red meat and dairy products that contain alpha-gal. This includes meat from cows, pigs, sheep, and goats. You can also prevent products like hamburgers, and hot dogs, especially when the child is young. Talk with your doctor. They may recommend avoiding certain cuts of meat or eating only small portions at a time and not near bedtime. Ask your doctor about testing and treatment options for the child. If your child has a severe reaction, an EpiPen or Twinject can be prescribed by your doctor. 

These devices contain epinephrine, which can counteract the effects of anaphylaxis if it occurs. Anti-allergy shots are also available. Always be prepared. Keep an EpiPen at home, in your glove compartment, or in your purse. Epinephrine works by blocking a crucial part of the body's response to an allergic reaction. This can help prevent further problems and reduce any long-term medical effects of the allergy. The child may also need to use a nebulizer and take oral steroids for up to two weeks after the reaction so that their lungs and other organs can recover from the effects of anaphylaxis. Use a food diary to keep track of what your child eats. This will help you determine what foods your child is allergic to and what foods trigger their symptoms.

5.  Can Red Meat Allergy Be Dangerous?

Red meat allergy in children can be fatal. It can lead to anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that causes symptoms such as hives and throat swelling. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening within minutes. When it does happen, it's most often within two hours after eating red meat. The risk increases if they eat more than one serving of red meat at a time or eat more than one type of red meat. Immediately seek emergency medical care if your child has breathing problems after eating red meat.

6.  How Can an ENT Consultant Help?

Several medications, such as antihistamines and steroids, can treat red meat allergies in children. But since the mechanisms of the allergy are still being investigated, it's best to work closely with an allergist specializing in food allergies. Sometimes, a physician may prescribe an anti-allergy injection to help desensitize the child to the allergen. If a child has severe symptoms of an allergic reaction, they may need emergency treatment in a hospital. Talk to an allergist immediately if you have questions or concerns about your child's red meat allergy.

Children need special attention and care. Food allergies can be life threatening if quit untreated. Parents need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of food allergies in children and how to prevent them. Each child's condition may differ, but it is crucial to understand the signs and symptoms. Spend time with your child and learn about their allergies. Keep an eye on your child's eating and ensure they are eating a variety of foods.