Wild Insides
#Human body
Why A Stuck Coin Battery Burns Your Throat From Inside
A coin battery has no sharp edges, but if it gets stuck in the esophagus, wet tissue completes its circuit.
Short. Strange. True.The real science
alpha-gal syndrome · tick bite · red meat allergy · lone star tick · allergic to meat · immune system
The real science
Some tick bites can leave something behind: an immune reaction to alpha-gal, a sugar found in beef, pork and lamb. Weeks later, a normal meal can trigger hives or swelling hours after eating. This condition is called alpha-gal syndrome. Swelling of the throat or trouble breathing is a medical emergency, so call emergency services right away.
Don’t try anything shown in this video. This is general science, not medical advice — if you’re worried, contact a professional.
Follow the facts
- CDC: Alpha-gal Syndrome
- CDC MMWR: Geographic Distribution of Suspected Alpha-gal Syndrome Cases
- CDC: Alpha-gal Syndrome (AGS) Case Definition
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Curious about something in “One Tick Bite Can Make You Allergic To Steak”? Our AI-powered helper answers using only this page’s write-up and sources.
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#Human body
Why Your Seatbelt Locks When You Yank It
Pull a seatbelt slowly and it glides out, but yank it and it locks right away.
Short. Strange. True.The real science
#33Human body
Your Body Eats Two Million Of Its Own Blood Cells Every Second
Every red blood cell lives for about four months.
Short. Strange. True.The real science