When most people think of allergies, food or medicine come to mind as the culprits. However, there is such a thing as an allergy to alcohol, although it is not as common as certain other allergic reactions. It is essential to understand and recognize alcohol allergy symptoms. An allergy to alcohol is frequently referred to as alcohol intolerance; however, the terms are interchangeable. The human immune system responds differently to numerous irritations depending on a myriad of factors. These reactions vary considerably from person to person, which means the alcohol allergy symptoms may differ, as well.
Every individual has a sensitivity threshold, which determines his or her tolerance level to certain irritants. When an irritation has reached a certain level, it crosses this threshold and becomes an allergen. Those who enjoy good overall health and a strong immune system typically experience mild symptoms when an allergic reaction occurs. In many cases, those with suppressed immune systems experience symptoms in greater severity, than those with sturdy immune systems.
Alcohol allergies are somewhat rare in the United States but occur more frequently on the Asian continent. Those who suffer from allergies to other substances have a higher risk of developing an alcohol allergy, as well. Alcohol intolerance can have an instant, and severe effect on the human body, due to the fact that it increases histamine production, while at the same time decreases the person’s ability to break it down.
The concept of an allergic reaction to alcohol has been poorly understood in the past, and certain professional allergists are attempting to devote more time to its study. Alcohol allergy symptoms are not typically mild, in nature, but are rather severe from the time of their initial onset. For this reason, one should not take such symptoms lightly.
Alcohol allergy symptoms are generally very similar to food allergy symptoms. Some of the most frequently seen symptoms of an alcohol allergy are reduced blood pressure, flushing, and an increase in heart rate. These symptoms are especially common in those of oriental background. The flushing reaction is typically caused by a deficiency of Aldehyde Dehydrogenase–an enzyme that breaks down alcohol when ingested–and is often accompanied by nausea.
Alcohol consumption in those who are allergic may cause a symptom referred to by allergists as Non-Allergic Rhinitis. With this reaction, the blood cells of the individual’s nose are forced to dilate, which results in cold-like symptoms such as nasal congestion and mucus production. It may also produce an effect similar to that of hay fever, such as repetitive sneezing, and a runny nose.
If one has an allergy to sulphate–a substance used in the manufacturing and preservation of alcohol–he or she can experience severe reactions such as anaphylaxis, shock, as well as swelling and hives. Alcohol allergy symptoms may also exacerbate the symptoms of underlying medical conditions such as angioedema and chronic urticaria.
Additional symptoms such as itchiness, periods of extreme sensation of heat, headaches, vomiting, heart palpitations, numbness, vertigo, and tingling of the extremities may be present, as well. It is important to understand that a severe hangover can result in some of these symptoms, therefore, an alcohol allergy may not always be the culprit. However, anyone who suspects that he or she is suffering from such an allergy should seek the advice of a health care professional.