Have you ever wondered if your body’s giving you some side-eye after that drink?
Knowing whether it’s due to alcohol allergy or intolerance can save you from those unwanted reactions.
Let’s break it down – allergies trigger the immune system, while intolerance is more about how your body processes the booze.
Read along as I decode the symptoms, and shed light on the risks, treatments, and ways to keep those reactions at bay.
What Is An Alcohol Allergy?
An alcohol allergy is your body’s way of saying, “Whoa, not cool!”.
It is an immune system reaction caused by specific substances present in alcoholic beverages. Some people may be allergic to other components of alcoholic drinks, such as wheat, barley, rye, hops, yeast, or grapes.
It is important to note that alcohol allergies are relatively uncommon compared to other types of food allergies. But if you do have one or two teaspoons of wine or a mouthful of beer, it may be enough to trigger the reaction.
Is Alcohol Intolerance The Same As An Alcohol Allergy?
An alcohol allergy involves your immune system getting disturbed as a response to specific components in drinks, setting off an immune reaction.
On the flip side, alcohol intolerance is a more common condition in which a person’s body is unable to properly break down alcohol.
One common cause of alcohol intolerance is an inherited deficiency in the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH2), which is responsible for breaking down alcohol in the body.
Alcohol Allergy Symptoms
Symptoms of an alcohol allergy can range from a mere inconvenience to serious ones.
Signs of an alcohol allergy include:
- Itching
- Rashes
- Trouble breathing
- Stomach cramps
- Anaphylaxis, which is a severe reaction that can include a rapid, weak pulse, nausea, and vomiting
These reactions hit fast and furious, making it crucial to keep an eye out for any signs of distress after a drink.
Alcohol Intolerance Symptoms
Symptoms associated with alcohol intolerance have a spectrum of reactions distinct from an allergic response.
These may include:
- Facial flushing, a reddening of the skin
- Nausea
- Headache
- Hives
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Fast heartbeat or palpitations
- Low blood pressure
- Stuffy nose
- Stomach pain, which may include nausea or vomiting
- If you have asthma, your symptoms can get worse
It’s essential to note that these symptoms primarily affect the digestive system and general well-being rather than signaling and immune system reaction typical of an allergy.
Triggers For Alcohol Allergic Reactions
You may be more likely to have an intolerance to alcohol or allergic symptoms if you:
- Have asthma or hay fever
- Have a family history of allergies might make you more likely to have an alcohol allergy.
- Have food allergies, it could also increase the chances of an alcohol allergy.
- Other underlying health conditions might contribute to this predisposition.
If you’re under any medication, you must with your doctor to see if alcohol needs to be avoided.
How To Prevent Alcohol Allergic Reactions?
Avoiding alcohol is the only sure way to prevent an alcohol-related reaction. If symptoms arise, seeking medical help is crucial, especially for severe reactions.
For individuals prone to other allergies, staying vigilant about possible triggers and having a plan ready can be a lifesaver. If you get a reaction, you should immediately contact a healthcare professional. They will help you identify triggers or devise a plan, that will help in managing alcohol-related reactions effectively.
Conclusion
Confused if you’re allergic to alcohol or just intolerant to it?
To understand if you’re allergic or intolerant its best to seek out confirmation by visiting an allergist. Your health matters, so don’t hesitate to seek professional help for a clearer understanding and better management of alcohol allergies. If you’re in Arlington or Irving you can also schedule an appointment with me to learn more about your allergies.