Skin prick tests and blood tests may also be used to identify allergens and assess the body’s reaction to alcohol. Chronic symptoms and conditions may develop over time, especially in those who continue to consume alcohol despite intolerance. One of the most serious long-term effects is an increased risk of gastrointestinal cancers, such as cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach, and liver. Genetic factors, existing health conditions, and lifestyle habits like smoking compound these risks.
- An alcohol intolerance rash looks like red, itchy bumps or hives on your skin.
- If you have any of these symptoms or you are with someone who does, you should immediately seek emergency help by calling 911.
- A food allergy activates the immune system rather than the digestive system.
- If any of these are positive, it would mean you have an allergy to alcohol.
- You may be more likely to have reactions to alcohol if you have any of these factors.
How to deal with adverse reactions to alcohol
If you only consume a small amount of the food you are intolerant to, you may not have symptoms. Several online-based companies and labs offer testing that you can do from the comfort of your own home. Companies that offer at-home testing options, such as Everlywell, also offer consultations with a healthcare provider to help you choose the best test for your symptoms. On the other hand, if you suffer from allergies that are heightened by alcohol intake, Dr. Steven says your best bet to start would be to address the root of the problem. Alcoholic drinks high in sulphites and/or histamine include wine (red, white, rosé and sparkling), cider and beer.
Understanding Alcohol Intolerance: Definition and Distinctions
While alcohol intolerance from health conditions is very rare, it is crucial to consider these factors and consult your doctor if you notice a sudden change in how your body reacts to alcohol. True alcohol allergy is thought to be rare, while alcohol intolerance is more common. Some people may incorrectly assume they are allergic to alcohol, when in fact they are actually reacting to other components of alcoholic drinks. Taking Pepcid before drinking is a popular strategy for preventing the alcohol flush reaction.
- Several online-based companies and labs offer testing that you can do from the comfort of your own home.
- Research shows that older females are more sensitive than males to the effects of alcohol.
- Continuing to drink alcohol while knowing you are intolerant (or allergic) can also have severe health consequences.
- Although not a true allergy, in some cases, what seems to be alcohol intolerance might be your reaction to something in an alcoholic beverage — such as chemicals, grains or preservatives.
- If you do choose to drink, limit how much you drink and stop drinking at the first sign of symptoms.
- Hydration may help alleviate this symptom, but it won’t eliminate your stuffiness completely.
- Sulfites are preservatives, and most countries permit their addition to alcoholic drinks such as beer and wine.
Medical Professionals
This enzyme plays a major role in metabolizing alcohol and eliminating it from the body. Without sufficient ALDH2, a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism known as acetaldehyde builds up and causes unpleasant reactions. According to Sandra Parker, alcohol abuse coach and founder of Just The Tonic Coaching, alcohol intolerance is a genetic metabolic disorder where the body can’t break down alcohol properly. This can result in an uncomfortable reaction with symptoms ranging from redness and itchiness, to a blocked nose and nausea. Even if you only have mild symptoms of alcohol intolerance, you should avoid alcohol. Research has shown that some people with mild symptoms of intolerance can get used to the symptoms of excess acetaldehyde in their bodies.
If you have this variant, it causes your body to produce less active ALDH2. Individuals may also explore alternative alcoholic beverages or nonalcoholic options that they can tolerate. They may also find that eating certain foods, taking supplements, or exercising may help with their reaction. They may also discuss possible medications for their reactions, such as antihistamines. As a person ages, certain health conditions or medications may mean they have different reactions to alcohol alcohol intolerance than they previously did.
Alcohol Intolerance Testing
If any of these are positive, it would mean you have an allergy to alcohol. Alcohol can cause a great level of discomfort if someone drinks it without being aware they have alcohol intolerance. Continuing to drink alcohol while knowing you are intolerant (or allergic) can also have severe health consequences. Symptoms such as facial flushing, hives, nasal congestion, and nausea after alcohol consumption may indicate underlying health issues contributing to alcohol intolerance. Seeking medical advice is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management. The primary cause of alcohol intolerance is a genetic condition that affects the body’s ability to metabolize alcohol efficiently.
Notably, however, this doesn’t mean you should start eating as many different lactose-containing dairy foods as you can find — especially if you’re lactose intolerant. So, lactase has a tremendous impact on whether someone will become lactose intolerant. The less lactase your body has, the more likely you’ll have digestive symptoms.
Navigating Daily Life with Alcohol Intolerance
However, some people may experience allergy-like reactions after consumption. People with the ALDH2 deficiency are at higher risk for certain types of cancer, including liver cancer. Because alcohol is a carcinogen, drinking already increases cancer risk. Studies show that people with the alcohol intolerance gene are up to eight times more likely to develop head and neck cancer than people without it. They are also up to 12 times more likely to develop esophageal cancer than the general population.
How Does Sudden Onset Alcohol Intolerance Occur?
These conditions can lead to severe complications, including heart attack and stroke. A person experiencing a severe allergic reaction should go to the emergency room immediately. Depending on the allergy severity, a person may treat symptoms with over-the-counter medications, such as oral antihistamines, if the reaction is mild.
Alcohol intolerance symptoms
A person’s tolerance may also change over time due to a decline in body mass in older adults. This may result in higher concentrations of alcohol in the blood and more significant effects from drinking. In some cases, reactions may also result from an allergy to a grain such as corn or wheat in alcoholic beverages. If a person combines alcohol with certain medications, this may also cause a reaction. Genetic testing may also be an option, providing a more definitive answer.