Alcohol Intolerance: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of alcohol intolerance?

Alcohol intolerance is a condition where a person’s body is unable to properly break down alcohol. This can lead to various symptoms, which typically occur shortly after consuming alcohol. Common symptoms of alcohol intolerance include:

1. Facial flushing: This is one of the most common symptoms and is characterized by redness and warmth in the face and neck.
2. Nausea and vomiting: Some people may experience nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain after consuming alcohol.
3. Headaches: Alcohol intolerance can trigger headaches or migraines in some individuals.
4. Rapid heartbeat: Alcohol can cause a rapid heartbeat or heart palpitations in people with alcohol intolerance.
5. Low blood pressure: Some individuals may experience a drop in blood pressure after consuming alcohol, leading to dizziness or fainting.
6. Difficulty breathing: In severe cases, alcohol intolerance can cause difficulty breathing or wheezing.
7. Skin reactions: Some people may experience itching, hives, or other skin reactions after consuming alcohol.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can vary in severity and may depend on the amount of alcohol consumed. If you suspect you have alcohol intolerance, it’s best to avoid alcohol and speak with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and advice.

What are the causes of alcohol intolerance?

Alcohol intolerance is primarily caused by an inability to break down alcohol properly. This can be due to several factors, including:

1. Enzyme deficiency: The most common cause of alcohol intolerance is a deficiency in the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2). This enzyme is responsible for metabolizing alcohol in the liver. If a person has a genetic variation that leads to low ALDH2 activity, they may experience symptoms of alcohol intolerance.
2. Histamine intolerance: Some people may be sensitive to histamine, a compound produced in the body and found in certain foods and drinks, including alcohol. Histamine intolerance can cause symptoms such as flushing, headache, and other allergic-like reactions.
3. Sulfite sensitivity: Alcohol, particularly wine and beer, can contain sulfites, which are used as preservatives. Some people are sensitive to sulfites and may experience symptoms such as flushing, headache, or asthma-like symptoms after consuming alcohol containing sulfites.
4. Other factors: Certain medications or underlying health conditions, such as certain types of cancer or gastrointestinal disorders, can also contribute to alcohol intolerance.

It’s important to note that while alcohol intolerance is commonly associated with genetic factors, other factors such as histamine or sulfite sensitivity can also play a role. If you suspect you have alcohol intolerance, it’s best to avoid alcohol and speak with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and advice.

What is the treatment for alcohol intolerance?

The most effective treatment for alcohol intolerance is to avoid alcohol or limit alcohol consumption. This can help prevent the symptoms associated with alcohol intolerance. Additionally, managing any underlying conditions or sensitivities that may contribute to alcohol intolerance, such as histamine intolerance or sulfite sensitivity, can also be helpful.

If you experience mild symptoms of alcohol intolerance, such as facial flushing or headaches, you may be able to manage them with over-the-counter medications. Antihistamines or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help reduce symptoms. However, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any medication, especially if you have other health conditions or are taking other medications.

In cases where alcohol intolerance is severe or is causing significant symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can help diagnose the underlying cause of alcohol intolerance and recommend appropriate treatment options. This may include avoiding certain types of alcohol, managing underlying conditions, or working with a healthcare professional to develop a plan to help you safely enjoy alcohol in moderation.

Can you become intolerant of alcohol later in life?

Yes, it is possible to develop alcohol intolerance later in life, even if you have been able to tolerate alcohol in the past. There are several reasons why this may occur:

1. Changes in metabolism: As people age, their bodies may undergo changes in metabolism, including changes in the way they process alcohol. This can lead to a decreased ability to break down alcohol, resulting in symptoms of alcohol intolerance.
2. Medications: Certain medications can interact with alcohol and increase its effects, leading to symptoms of alcohol intolerance. As people age, they are more likely to take medications that can interact with alcohol.
3. Underlying health conditions: Some health conditions that become more common with age, such as gastrointestinal disorders or liver disease, can affect the body’s ability to tolerate alcohol.
4. Changes in enzyme activity: Enzymes in the liver that are involved in metabolizing alcohol may become less active with age, leading to a decreased ability to break down alcohol and an increased risk of alcohol intolerance.
5. Sensitivities: As people age, they may develop sensitivities to certain substances, including histamine or sulfites, which are found in alcohol and can contribute to symptoms of alcohol intolerance.

If you suspect you have developed alcohol intolerance, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional. They can help diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options. In some cases, simply avoiding alcohol or limiting alcohol consumption may be sufficient to manage symptoms.