Alcohol is widely available and legal throughout most of the United States. Studies have found that most adults in the country report drinking alcohol at least occasionally. While most people include alcohol as part of a generally healthy lifestyle, some struggle with addiction or other complications.
One complication of alcohol use is alcohol intolerance. Some people experience uncomfortable symptoms immediately after consuming an alcoholic beverage. Intolerance symptoms may be uncomfortable. But are allergic reactions to alcohol dangerous or a sign of a more serious problem?
This article will explore alcohol intolerance. You will learn:
- The symptoms of alcohol intolerance
- What causes alcohol intolerance
- Risk factors for alcohol intolerance
- How to prevent alcohol intolerance
- How to recognize and treat alcohol abuse
- Where to find substance abuse treatment and support
If you or someone you love struggles with alcohol intolerance or abuse, you can find support at Archstone Recovery. Reach out to our intake specialists to learn about our rehab and support programs. Contact us with questions or to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.
Symptoms of Alcohol Intolerance
Some people refer to alcohol intolerance as an alcohol allergy. This is not accurate, but the symptoms of intolerance may mimic an allergic reaction.
People with alcohol intolerance typically experience symptoms immediately after consuming an alcoholic beverage. Symptoms might include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Hives (red, itchy bumps on the skin)
- Facial redness
- Low blood pressure
People who have pre-existing asthma may experience worsening symptoms of this condition.
The symptoms of alcohol intolerance can be very distressing. If you experience these symptoms after consuming alcoholic drinks, your doctor may advise you to avoid alcohol. Or, you may need to avoid certain types of alcoholic beverages.
What Causes Alcohol Intolerance?
Alcohol intolerance occurs in people who lack certain enzymes to break down alcohol’s toxins. Researchers believe an inherited genetic condition called alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) is responsible for this intolerance. This condition occurs when people have a genetic variant of the aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) 2 gene. It prevents the body from converting acetaldehyde into acetic acid.
Other common ingredients in alcoholic beverages may cause intolerance reactions. These include:
- Grains
- Chemicals
- Sulfites and other preservatives
- Histamine (a byproduct of the fermentation process)
These ingredients are most common in beer and red wine.
People may have an allergic reaction to the grains used to make the alcohol, including rye, corn, and wheat. Drinking alcoholic beverages containing these ingredients can trigger an immune system response. People with true allergies to these or other grains must avoid alcoholic drinks that contain these ingredients.
Experiencing severe pain after consuming alcohol may indicate a life-threatening condition, such as Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Risk Factors for Alcohol Intolerance
Several risk factors may increase the likelihood of alcohol intolerance. Some of the risk factors for alcohol intolerance include:
- Having Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Having an allergy to grains
- Allergies to other foods
- Being of Asian descent
- Having hay fever or asthma
In most cases, people with alcohol intolerance must simply avoid drinking alcohol or specific types of alcoholic beverages.
Do I Need Medical Attention for Alcohol Intolerance?
According to the Mayo Clinic, mild alcohol intolerance symptoms do not require medical attention. However, some people may experience more severe complications that do require medical intervention, including:
- Migraines
- Severe allergic reactions
- Severe pain after drinking
You may also require professional treatment if you cannot limit or stop drinking on your own. Alcohol use disorder is a complex condition that requires comprehensive, compassionate treatment.
It is crucial to get the treatment and support you need to address the complex roots of your alcohol abuse. The sooner you get help, the better your chance of a full, lifelong recovery.
How to Prevent Alcohol Intolerance
There is no cure for alcohol intolerance. The only way to avoid having a reaction is to stop drinking alcohol. You may need to avoid alcohol altogether or avoid specific types of alcoholic beverages.
Read all labels on alcoholic drinks to determine if they contain ingredients likely to trigger a reaction. If you cannot stop drinking on your own, seek treatment as soon as possible.
Recognizing and Treating Alcohol Abuse
If you find it challenging to limit your drinking or stop, you may require professional treatment and support. Some of the signs of alcohol abuse or addiction include:
- Needing to drink more to get the desired effects
- Being able to drink a lot without appearing intoxicated
- Taking risks while drinking, like having unprotected sex or driving drunk
- Neglecting your responsibilities, relationships, and hobbies
- Having legal or financial trouble related to your drinking
- Experiencing cravings for alcohol
- Wanting to stop drinking but finding it’s challenging
Alcohol abuse and addiction can make every aspect of your life more challenging. It can cause significant, life-threatening harm to your health and emotional well-being. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize a problem.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggles with alcohol abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the intake team at Archstone Recovery to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- Science Direct: Alcohol: intolerance syndromes, urticarial and anaphylactoid reactions
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Effects of Alcohol Sensitivity on Alcohol-Induced Blackouts and Passing Out: An Examination of the Alcohol Sensitivity Questionnaire among Underage Drinkers
- Science Direct: Molecular and pharmacogenetic basis of alcohol intolerance
- Springer Link: Alcohol Metabolism, Alcohol Intolerance, and Alcoholism
