What is Alcohol Intolerance?
Alcohol intolerance happens when the body has trouble processing alcohol properly. It’s different from an alcohol allergy, but both can cause unpleasant reactions. A common sign of alcohol intolerance is facial flushing, where the face turns red after drinking alcohol because blood vessels widen.
Other symptoms may include a stuffy nose, headaches, or feeling sick, even after drinking a small amount.
This condition is often caused by genetics, affecting the enzymes that help break down alcohol. It’s more common in people of Asian descent due to a variation in the ALDH2 enzyme, which helps process acetaldehyde, a substance created when alcohol is broken down.
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Alcohol Intolerance Symptoms
Symptoms of alcohol intolerance show up soon after drinking alcohol. Common symptoms include:
- Red or flushed face: A red or flushed face often appears shortly after drinking, caused by widened blood vessels. This is a common reaction in people with alcohol intolerance.
- Stuffy nose: Nasal congestion or a blocked nose can happen soon after consuming alcohol, making it harder to breathe comfortably. This is due to the body’s reaction to certain compounds in alcohol.
- Feeling sick or throwing up: Nausea and vomiting can occur even after drinking small amounts of alcohol. This happens because the body struggles to process alcohol properly.
- Headaches: Headaches or migraines may develop quickly after drinking alcohol. This can be caused by a buildup of acetaldehyde, a byproduct of alcohol metabolism.
- Fast heartbeat: A rapid or irregular heartbeat, known as palpitations, can occur after consuming alcohol. This symptom may feel alarming but is common in those with alcohol intolerance.
- Stomach pain or bloating: Abdominal discomfort or bloating can happen as the digestive system reacts to alcohol. These symptoms often worsen with continued consumption.
Some of these symptoms can be similar to allergies, but they aren’t caused by an allergic reaction. Instead, they happen because the body can’t process alcohol properly.
What Causes Alcohol Intolerance?
Alcohol intolerance happens when the body can’t process alcohol properly. This is often due to a lack of an enzyme called ALDH2, which is needed to break down alcohol. Without it, a substance called acetaldehyde builds up, causing symptoms like a red face and nausea.
This enzyme deficiency is more common in people of Asian descent and is influenced by genetics. However, other factors can also play a role:
- Alcohol ingredients: Additives in alcoholic drinks, like sulfites in red wine, can trigger reactions in some people. These ingredients may worsen symptoms of alcohol intolerance.
- Health conditions: Conditions such as asthma, sinus problems, or digestive disorders can make alcohol intolerance symptoms more severe. These health issues can amplify the body’s inability to process alcohol.
- Medications: Certain medicines, such as antibiotics or antifungal drugs, can interact with alcohol. These interactions may mimic the symptoms of alcohol intolerance, making it hard to identify the cause.
Can You Develop Alcohol Intolerance?
Yes, it’s possible to develop alcohol intolerance over time. While it’s often genetic, some people can develop it later in life due to health issues or body changes. For example, chronic illnesses that affect the liver or digestive system can make it harder for the body to process alcohol.
Certain medications can also cause reactions to alcohol that feel like intolerance. If you suddenly notice symptoms after drinking alcohol, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor to find out what’s causing them.
Diagnosing Alcohol Intolerance
If you think you have alcohol intolerance, talk to a doctor. They can review your symptoms and medical history to diagnose the issue.
The doctor may also do allergy tests to rule out an alcohol allergy or other sensitivities. It’s important to know if your symptoms are from intolerance or an allergy. An alcohol allergy affects the immune system and can cause serious problems like swelling or trouble breathing.
Keeping a journal of your symptoms and what happens when you drink alcohol can help the doctor figure out what’s going on.
Alcohol Allergy vs. Intolerance
People often mix up alcohol intolerance and alcohol allergy, but they are not the same. Alcohol intolerance is a problem with how the body processes alcohol, while an alcohol allergy involves the immune system.
Key Differences:
- Alcohol intolerance: Causes symptoms like a red face, feeling sick, and a stuffy nose.
- Alcohol allergy: Can cause hives, swelling, or severe, life-threatening reactions.
Both conditions mean you should avoid alcohol, but allergies may require carrying emergency medicine, like an epinephrine injector, for serious reactions.
Is Alcohol Intolerance Dangerous?
Alcohol intolerance isn’t usually dangerous, but it can cause discomfort. However, serious reactions to alcohol might signal a hidden health issue or an alcohol allergy.
Drinking alcohol despite having intolerance can make symptoms worse over time and lead to other health problems. If your symptoms get worse, like chest pain or swelling, get medical help right away.
Managing Alcohol Intolerance
The best way to manage alcohol intolerance is to avoid alcohol. Cutting back or eliminating alcoholic drinks can help prevent symptoms.
Other tips for managing this condition include:
- Switching drinks: If red wine causes symptoms, try white wine, a different type of alcohol, or non-alcoholic options like mocktails.
- Controlling portion size: Drinking less alcohol can help reduce symptoms.
- Reading labels: Check for additives in alcoholic drinks that might trigger reactions.
- Staying hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after alcohol to help lessen its effects.
- Monitoring your diet: Avoid combining alcohol with spicy foods or other allergens that could make symptoms worse.
- Checking your medications: Make sure any medications you take don’t interact with alcohol.
When To Seek Medical Advice
If you have severe symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Common signs that need professional attention include:
- Symptoms of alcohol intolerance that don’t go away or keep getting worse
- Signs of an allergic reaction, like swelling or trouble breathing
- Feeling uncomfortable often after drinking alcohol
Your doctor can do tests, including allergy tests, to rule out other possible issues. If they confirm alcohol intolerance or allergy, they can suggest the best way to manage it.
