(PJ Media)—The lone star tick, or Amblyomma americanum, is found throughout the United States, specifically on the East Coast, throughout the South, and in parts of the Midwest. It’s also found in Mexico. As ticks do, they carry nasty diseases that can be serious if not treated immediately, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
These include bourbon virus disease (which sounds like an awful flu), ehrlichiosis (which more often than not leads to hospitalization and can be fatal), Heartland virus disease (which also often leads to hospitalization), Southern tick-associated rash illness or STARI (which is similar to Lyme disease), and tularemia (which can affect your skin, eyes, throat, lungs, and intestines).
It also causes alpha-gal Syndrome (AGS), a serious food allergy involving red meat that can make your life a living hell. While some people only develop skin reactions, like hives, itching, flushing, and swelling of the eyelids, throat, tongue, or face, others may also end up with gastrointestinal issues, like diarrhea, cramping, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. Even worse, some people develop lung issues, ranging from cough and wheezing to anaphylaxis and shortness of breath. It can also cause arthritis, low blood pressure, heart palpitations, and immune system disorders.
Alpha-gal is found in:
Meat, including pork, beef, rabbit, lamb, goat, buffalo, or venison.
Medical products and medications, including the cancer drug cetuximab.
Products made from mammals, such as gelatin and cow’s milk, as well as personal care and household items.
People with AGS may also react to products with carrageenan. This additive is often used to thicken and preserve food and drinks such as nut milks, meat products and yogurt.
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