Alpha-Gal Syndrome: What Northwest Ohio Needs to Know

As lone star tick sightings rise across the Midwest, so too has awareness about a lesser-known health condition: alpha-gal syndrome. For residents of Northwest Ohio, understanding this tick-related issue is an important step toward managing outdoor health risks, especially during the warmer months when Ohio tick and mosquito control is even more important.

What Is Alpha-Gal Syndrome?

Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is a food allergy unlike most others. It’s not caused by a protein but rather a sugar molecule—galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose—found in red meat and other mammalian products. People don’t develop this sensitivity on their own; it typically starts after a bite from the lone star tick. These ticks introduce alpha-gal into the bloodstream, which may lead to a delayed allergic reaction when meat is later consumed. If you’ve noticed more ticks around your home, our tick control treatments in Northwest Ohio can help you take back control of your outdoor spaces.

What Are the Symptoms of Alpha-Gal?

Unlike most food allergies, which trigger symptoms within minutes, AGS reactions often show up 3–6 hours after eating red meat such as beef, pork, or lamb. Common symptoms include hives, stomach cramps, difficulty breathing, or, in rare cases, anaphylaxis. Because of the delay, many people don’t initially make the connection to their meals. That’s why if you’ve experienced late-night allergic reactions, it’s worth learning more about AGS and tick prevention in Northwest Ohio.

How Common Is It—and Who’s at Risk?

Cases of AGS have grown in recent years, not because the condition itself is new, but because we’re better at identifying it. Most confirmed cases are linked to areas where lone star ticks have become more established—including parts of Ohio. It’s not contagious, but it can be life-changing. Outdoor workers, hikers, and pet owners are at higher risk simply due to more frequent exposure. Reducing the tick population around your yard with help from Mosquito Squad of Northwest Ohio can significantly reduce your family’s risk.

Diagnosis and Living with Alpha-Gal Syndrome

If you suspect you have AGS, an allergist can run specific blood tests to check for alpha-gal antibodies. There’s currently no cure, so management involves avoiding red meat and foods made with mammal by-products (like gelatin or dairy). This means adjusting diets and habits—but many people continue to live full, active lives once they understand what triggers their symptoms. You can learn more and take action by exploring our custom tick treatment options designed to help limit tick exposure around your home.

Why Mosquito Squad Supports Alpha-Gal Awareness

At Mosquito Squad, we’re not medical professionals—but we are passionate about reducing the conditions that lead to tick bites. Our tick control services target the areas where ticks breed and rest, helping to disrupt their life cycle and lower the chances of encountering them near your home. Every application is backed by our satisfaction guarantee and years of experience across the pest control industry.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Alpha-gal syndrome may be on the rise, but awareness, prevention, and proactive property treatments can go a long way in reducing your risk. If you’re ready to make your yard less hospitable to lone star ticks—and create a more comfortable outdoor space—contact us to get started. Our team at Mosquito Squad of Northwest Ohio is here to help you enjoy your yard without the added worry.