Content
Alcohol intolerance is characterized by immediate unpleasant reactions after drinking alcohol. The most common signs and symptoms of alcohol intolerance are stuffy nose and skin flushing. Alcohol intolerance is caused by a genetic condition in which the body is unable to break down alcohol efficiently. The only way to prevent alcohol intolerance reactions is to avoid alcohol. However, in some cases, what seems to be alcohol intolerance may be a reaction to something in an alcoholic beverage, such as chemicals, grains, or preservatives. Combining alcohol with certain medications also can cause reactions.
- Sudden onset of symptoms may also be due to a newly developed intolerance.
- An allergist is a special type of doctor that focuses on allergic conditions.
- If left untreated, an allergic reaction can quickly become worse.
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
Even so, if you have a severe corn allergy, you may want to avoid corn-based spirits, most especially bourbon. Gin, whiskey, brandy, and some vodkas may also use corn as an ingredient or flavoring, so be sure to check the label. Grape allergies are rare, but signs of alcohol allergies they have been reported in some medical journals. In addition to wine, people with grape allergies may need to avoid Armagnac, cognac, ouzo, vermouth, port, and champagne. Most wine coolers and packaged martini mixes should also be struck from the list.
Alcoholism Resources
Depending on your symptoms, they may refer you to an allergist for testing and treatment. An allergist is a special type of doctor who focuses on allergic conditions.
Therefore, it is likely that your family members are at risk for the same problem. The main risk factor for having a problem with ALDH2 is being of East Asian descent, especially Chinese, Korean or Japanese. Allergy symptoms that affect breathing or have the potential to block your airway, such as swelling in the mouth or of the tongue, can be life-threatening. If you have any of these symptoms or you are with someone who does, you should immediately seek emergency help by calling 911. Symptoms may occur within seconds or minutes of alcohol exposure and could trigger after exposure to even tiny amounts of the allergen. Your symptoms, including any that seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment, and when they occur. All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.
Defining Alcohol Allergy
If, after consuming alcohol, you experience any of the symptoms listed above, please see your physician right away. It is estimated that as many as 50 million Americans may suffer from some type of allergy. In rare cases, allergies can lead to anaphylactic shock and death. If you or a loved one are dealing with allergy symptoms, see your Baptist Health physician for consultation and treatment.