Overview

• Daisy Holstine, 36, developed sudden hives and swelling starting in December and was later diagnosed with alpha-gal syndrome after symptoms returned when she reintroduced meat.
• Her path to diagnosis included months of misdirected treatment and concern over the cost and coverage of the blood test that confirms the condition.
• The allergy is linked to lone star tick bites and can cause delayed, severe reactions to red meat, dairy, gelatin and some medications, including heparin.
• Reported cases continue to expand beyond the Southeast, with Suffolk County on Long Island identified as a hot spot and Martha’s Vineyard residents and restaurants adjusting to seasonal spikes.
• With no cure, patients manage through strict avoidance, and some try Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment from chiropractors, though evidence is limited despite one small study reporting high remission rates.