Alcohol Intolerance: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Whereas, an ethanol allergy is an immune system response where the body reacts to alcohol itself or an ingredient in the alcoholic beverage, including chemicals, preservatives, or grain. At the first signs and symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, it’s essential to use epinephrine and go to the nearest emergency department for immediate follow-up care. If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming alcohol, seek immediate medical care.

• For instance, red wine is high in histamines, which can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.
• Very rarely, people who develop reactions later in life may have a more serious condition, such as Hodgkin lymphoma.
• If you have an alcohol allergy, you can develop an itchy rash, swelling, nausea, and even breathing trouble.
• You may be more likely to have reactions to alcohol if you have any of these factors.
• The services offered on our website, such as expert guidance, articles, and resources, are not meant to replace the advice of your personal doctor or other healthcare providers.

Specific Reactions

Your doctor will look for signs of allergic reactions, such as skin rashes or hives, and check for other symptoms like swelling or respiratory issues. In some cases, your doctor may observe how your body reacts to a controlled amount of alcohol to identify any immediate symptoms. An alcohol allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies alcohol as a harmful substance, triggering an allergic reaction. Common allergens in alcoholic beverages that can cause such reactions are barley, hops, yeast, rye, wheat, gluten, and sulfites. Some experts suggest that if your body can’t break down histamine as well as it should, it can build up in your body and cause symptoms.

How do you treat histamine intolerance?

• Treatment for alcohol allergy symptoms depends on what the symptoms are and how severe they are.
• The symptoms of an alcohol allergy can range from mild to severe and may include skin reactions, respiratory symptoms, and digestive symptoms.
• If you have other allergies, you are more likely to have an allergy to alcohol, according to research from Switzerland.

Topical corticosteroids or cold compresses may be used to alleviate skin irritation. In more severe cases, individuals may need to use an epinephrine injection for anaphylaxis or severe breathing difficulties. Seeking medical attention is essential for determining the most appropriate course of treatment. The best way to manage an alcohol allergy is to avoid alcohol entirely. Consulting with a healthcare professional or allergist can provide further guidance on managing cross-reactivity and avoiding potential allergic reactions.

Does Alcohol Cause Rashes? Symptoms and Causes

See a Cedars-Sinai provider in minutes from the comfort of home using the Cedars-Sinai Connect app. Finally, we would like to share with you some tips that Alcohol Intolerance can prevent worsening of the rash. Ria Health offers several FDA-approved medications for alcohol use disorder.

• While there is no cure for this condition, avoiding alcohol helps you stay symptom-free.
• Diagnostic tests, such as skin prick tests or blood tests, may be performed to identify specific allergens or rule out other potential causes.
• Connect with an expert pediatric provider for rashes, fevers and other urgent care needs.
• An allergic response to alcohol does not occur exclusively the first time alcohol is consumed 1.