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Why does natural rubber contain alpha gal molecules?

A MyFoodAllergyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Guthrie, OK

I recently learned that my tennis shoes, sketchers brand make my feet swell up and hurt. I got a pair of water shoes from Tume last summer and it’s the only pair that doesn’t have an effect on me. My dearfoam slippers don’t seem to cause a reaction either.

April 15
 · 
Be the first to react
A MyFoodAllergyTeam Member

I didn't know anything about getting a reaction from clothes!

July 9
A MyFoodAllergyTeam Member

I am diagnosed with alpha gal just didn’t put the connection together. Thank you for the reply. My sketchers are my favorite shoes as well as my leather boots and have a coat that’s fleece lined I can’t wear now. I want expecting to have to be careful of clothing. I am fume sensitive so I am careful of being outside when others grill.

April 15
MyFoodAllergyTeam

Why does natural rubber contain alpha-gal molecules?

Natural rubber comes from the sap of rubber trees, but the alpha-gal molecule itself is found in mammals (excluding primates). The connection between natural rubber products and alpha-gal reactions isn't directly explained in the available information, but your Show Full Answer

Why does natural rubber contain alpha-gal molecules?

Natural rubber comes from the sap of rubber trees, but the alpha-gal molecule itself is found in mammals (excluding primates). The connection between natural rubber products and alpha-gal reactions isn't directly explained in the available information, but your experience with shoe reactions suggests you may be dealing with alpha-gal syndrome.

Alpha-gal syndrome develops after being bitten by a lone star tick, which transfers the alpha-gal molecule into your body. Once sensitized, your immune system reacts to alpha-gal found in:

* Red meat (beef, pork, lamb)
* Dairy products
* Gelatin
* Certain medications and cosmetics
* Some products derived from mammals

The swelling and pain in your feet from certain shoes could indicate a reaction to materials containing alpha-gal or other mammalian-derived ingredients used in shoe manufacturing.

Since you're experiencing these reactions with specific footwear, it's important to talk with an allergist. They can perform blood tests to check for alpha-gal antibodies and help you identify which products to avoid. If you have severe symptoms, they may prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector for emergencies.

Keep track of which shoes cause reactions and which don't - this information will be helpful for your doctor.

April 15

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