Can a Tick Ruin Your Steak Night? Understanding Alpha-Gal Syndrome in Fayetteville

Mosquitoes may get most of the attention during warm weather, but here in Fayetteville, it’s ticks that can pose some of the most disruptive long-term health risks. One of the lesser-known — but increasingly recognized — consequences of tick bites is a condition known as Alpha-Gal Syndrome, which can drastically affect your lifestyle, especially if you enjoy red meat.

Let’s break down how a tiny tick might bring big changes to your dinner plans — and what you can do to reduce your risk.

What Is Alpha-Gal Syndrome?

Alpha-Gal Syndrome is a food allergy to red meat and other mammal-derived products. It’s linked to a sugar molecule called alpha-gal (galactose-α-1,3-galactose), which is found in most mammals but not in humans or apes. When a person is bitten by a lone star tick, which is increasingly common in the southeastern U.S., the tick can transmit alpha-gal into the bloodstream.

For some people, this triggers an immune response that causes a delayed allergic reaction when red meat is later consumed. Symptoms can include hives, swelling, stomach pain, or even more severe issues like difficulty breathing.

How Common Is It in Fayetteville?

While research is still ongoing, the southeastern U.S. — including Cumberland County and the greater Sandhills region — has seen a rise in lone star tick populations. With the tick’s range expanding, cases of Alpha-Gal Syndrome have followed. Outdoor lovers, pet owners, and anyone spending extended time in wooded or grassy areas could be at higher risk for exposure.

What Makes It So Tricky?

One of the biggest challenges with Alpha-Gal Syndrome is how delayed the symptoms are. Unlike peanut or shellfish allergies that often cause an immediate reaction, alpha-gal reactions might take 3 to 6 hours to appear after eating meat. This delay makes it harder to connect the dots between what you ate and how you're feeling.

What’s more, even processed foods or gelatin-based products can contain alpha-gal — making it more than just a matter of skipping steak night.

How to Reduce Your Risk: Tick Control That Works

Prevention is key, especially when it comes to something as unpredictable as Alpha-Gal Syndrome. While you can take personal precautions — like wearing long sleeves and using repellent — professional tick control is your most reliable long-term defense.

At Mosquito Squad of The Sandhills, we provide targeted tick treatments designed to help reduce tick populations where they thrive. Our trained team identifies high-risk areas around your property, applying treatments that are effective against ticks at every stage of life, from larvae to adults.

We offer both traditional treatments and natural alternatives, each with proven results. When applied routinely, these treatments make your yard a far less appealing place for ticks to linger — helping you and your family enjoy the outdoors with greater confidence.

Why Partner With Mosquito Squad of The Sandhills?

Since 2005, Mosquito Squad has been a trusted provider of outdoor pest control nationwide. Here in Fayetteville, our local team is familiar with the challenges posed by regional pests, including the rise of tick-related concerns like Alpha-Gal Syndrome.

Our treatments are designed to be long-lasting, and our service is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. For more information, including our guarantee terms & conditions, see our website.

Take Back Your Backyard — and Your Menu

If you're spending more time checking for ticks than enjoying your time outdoors, it’s time for a change. Let Mosquito Squad of The Sandhills help reduce tick activity on your property so you can get back to grilling — without wondering if that burger comes with a side of regret.

Call today for a free quote and protect your space from ticks before they bite back.