Title: Lon Wilhelms Shares Her Struggle Living with Alpha-gal Syndrome
Introduction:
Lon Wilhelms bravely opens up about her experience living with Alpha-gal syndrome, a condition caused by tick bites that has made her allergic to mammals and their byproducts. Her story sheds light on this lesser-known condition and the challenges she faces in her daily life.
The Discovery of Alpha-gal Syndrome:
Lon Wilhelms contracted COVID-19 in July 2022, which led to a series of health issues. Months of testing eventually revealed that she had developed Alpha-gal syndrome, a red meat allergy caused by tick bites. Prior to her diagnosis, Lon had never heard of this condition and took it upon herself to conduct extensive research.
Alpha-gal Extends Beyond Red Meat Allergy:
Lon discovered that her sensitivity extended beyond hooved animals, including mammalian byproducts found in everyday products like shampoos, cosmetics, and medications. The ingestion of these products further aggravated her symptoms, leaving her feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about which foods she could trust.
The Impact on Daily Life:
Lon’s struggle to navigate her diet resulted in her relying solely on Ritz crackers and peanut butter as the only safe foods initially. She required injections to obtain necessary nutrients due to the limited options available to her. Lon also highlights the absence of regulations making it mandatory for labels to include information about mammalian meat, making it even more challenging to avoid allergens.
The Link to Tick Bites:
The lone star tick, commonly found in rural areas of the East Coast, is believed to be responsible for transmitting Alpha-gal syndrome. Lon’s doctor theorizes that her immune system was previously able to suppress the syndrome, but her illness with COVID-19 weakened her defenses, allowing the condition to manifest.
Varied Reactions and Management:
Lon explains that individuals with Alpha-gal syndrome experience different reactions to mammalian products, ranging from gastrointestinal issues to severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis. Managing the condition typically involves daily antihistamines, carrying EpiPens, and avoiding products and foods that may contain animal byproducts.
The Importance of Community Support:
Lon found solace in an online Facebook group dedicated to those living with Alpha-gal syndrome. The community provided resources, research, and personal experiences to help those like Lon navigate their condition. Through their efforts, a comprehensive list of safe and unsafe brands was created, enabling Lon to reintroduce normal foods into her diet.
Conclusion:
Living with Alpha-gal syndrome has significantly impacted Lon Wilhelms’ life, forcing her to adapt her diet and be vigilant about the products she uses. Lon hopes that increased awareness of the condition will encourage understanding and support from both the public and medical professionals. She emphasizes the importance of avoiding tick bites and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten to prevent the development of Alpha-gal syndrome.
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