If people experience symptoms after drinking alcohol, they should speak with a doctor for further advice. Symptoms are more likely to be a reaction to the ingredients in a drink, or the alcohol causing other types of allergies to worsen. For what causes alcohol intolerance example, alcohol may exacerbate preexisting asthma conditions. An alcohol allergy is a rare toxic reaction to alcohol that can be fatal in rare cases. Often, what people consider to be an alcohol allergy is, in fact, alcohol intolerance.

What to expect from your doctor

Research suggests that up to 10 percent of asthmatics are sensitive to sulphites, with the severity of reactions varying from mild to life-threatening. “The wheezing and nasal/sinus symptoms in particular are due to the release of sulphur dioxide gas causing airway irritation,” Dr Watts explains. A sign that you may have an intolerance is that you have symptoms no matter what type of alcohol you drink. By Victoria GroceVictoria Groce is a medical writer living with celiac disease who specializes in writing about dietary management of food allergies.

Managing conditions

If drinking alcohol—also known as ethanol—gives you food allergy symptoms such as flushing or hives, you may have an intolerance to alcohol. A food allergy is an abnormal immune reaction to things we eat, while a food intolerance is an adverse https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/15-benefits-of-the-alcohol-free-lifestyle/ reaction to food that does not involve the immune system. If you develop symptoms after drinking alcohol, make an appointment with your doctor. Depending on your symptoms, they might refer you to an allergist for testing and treatment.

• Also, if your symptoms seem to be linked to an allergy or a medication you’re taking, see your doctor.
• In a few cases, alcohol intolerance can be a sign of a more serious problem.
• They can provide personalized advice, support, and treatment options, helping you effectively navigate the challenges of this condition.
• People with celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or a wheat allergy may need to steer clear of conventional beer.
• Therefore, if you have celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, you’ll need to steer clear of conventional beer and some other drinks.

Elsewhere on BBC Food

White wine tends to contain higher levels of sulfites than red wine and beer. Some types of sulfites might also trigger an asthmatic attack if you have asthma. Normally your body produces an enzyme called diamine oxidase (DAO) to break histamine down. If your body doesn’t produce enough active DAO, you may react to histamine in foods and beverages. It’s also found in many foods and beverages, especially fermented products.