Ask The Expert on Alpha-Gal Syndrome / Allergy – Test Results
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The Expert: Debi Farley | Acupuncture Works, LLC
What is Alpha-Gal?
Alpha Gal is an allergy to the sugar molecule galactose-a-1,3-galactose that is found in all 4 limbed mammals, except humans and old world apes. All foods have proteins, fats, and carbs. Alpha Gal is the carb in the meat. This classifies Alpha Gal as a food allergy just like peanuts, shrimp, soy…
What is the test for Alpha Gal?
A blood test checking for antibodies to alpha gal. This test is often listed as IGE Blood Panel for galactose-a-1, 3-galactose. This test will often list beef, pork, lamb and alpha gal with separate reference numbers and a total alpha gal number. You are considered positive for these antibodies if the number is above .10.
What does the test mean?
Your body has built up an army to fight something that it thinks is harmful. These are the antibodies. It doesn’t mean the army is fighting.
The test doesn’t tell you when, how, what, and/or the severity of the reaction. It also doesn’t tell you that you can react below the number.
Many tests also include a paragraph explaining why you might have a false positive, false negative and that the test is not to be used for diagnosis and you should consult with your physician for a complete diagnosis.
The test is a guideline to be used to determine the cause of your symptoms.
Does SAAT change the bloodwork?
No.
How Does SAAT (Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment) treat the allergy?
It basically turns off/blocks/desensitizes the body so that it doesn’t recognize the allergy being harmful. When you receive allergy shots, you are building up a tolerance that turns off/blocks/desensitizes the body from the allergen.
Does Acupuncture work the same way as SAAT for Alpha Gal?
No, traditional acupuncture is working with the body’s immune system to reduce the allergy response. SAAT is desensitizing the body to a specific allergen.
ABOUT THE EXPERT
With over 20 years of experience as an Acupuncturist, Debi Farley is board certified by the National Certification Commission (NCCAOM), licensed by the State of Virginia as a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac) and licensed in Florida as a Doctor of Oriental Medicine. She is certified in Chinese Auricular Therapy, the Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment (SAAT) and Auricular Medicine, and is Lynchburg’s expert on treating the Alpha Gal food allergy as well as diseases the tick may give you.
It is Debi’s mission to partner with her patients to help them live their best life possible.
Acupuncture Works, LLC
114 Duncraig Dr. (Wyndhurst)
Lynchburg VA 24502
434-237-0302
www.AcupunctureWorksLLCLynchburg.com