Sudden Alcohol Intolerance: Causes & Symptoms

This can show up as things like flushing, headaches, feeling sick, or a racing heartbeat after drinking. On the other hand, it would be best for people with alcohol intolerance to stay away from alcohol completely, as this is the only way to avoid symptoms and side effects. People who find they become intoxicated off a few drinks should limit their consumption accordingly, and not try to “keep up” with others. Reasons for low tolerance can include lower body weight, genetics, overall health, and the body not being used to metabolizing alcohol.

How Does Alcohol Intolerance Develop?

• Furthermore, research indicates that older females may be more sensitive than males to the effects of alcohol 4.
• A sudden intolerance to alcohol can be a puzzling and concerning experience, often leaving individuals wondering about the underlying causes.
• People of East Asian descent are more likely to have the inherited genetic mutation that causes alcohol intolerance, so they develop the condition at higher rates.
• Most cases of suddenly developed alcohol intolerance occur due to starting a new medicine that causes it.

Flushing, often referred to as the “alcohol flush reaction,” occurs due to the dilation of blood vessels, causing the skin to appear red and warm. This reaction is the body’s attempt to increase blood flow and eliminate the toxic acetaldehyde. Nausea is another common symptom, as the body tries to expel the harmful substance through vomiting. The rapid heartbeat, or tachycardia, is a result of the body’s stress response to the toxic effects of acetaldehyde, triggering the release of stress hormones like adrenaline.

• Age, for instance, plays a role in decreasing alcohol tolerance due to reduced enzyme activity and changes in metabolism, body mass, and bodily functions.
• To diagnose alcohol intolerance, healthcare professionals may perform various diagnostic tests to evaluate your symptoms and identify potential triggers.
• It is essential for older adults to consult healthcare providers about potential interactions between alcohol and their medications.
• If an allergy to an ingredient in alcohol is suspected, an allergy test may be recommended.

Impact on Health Conditions

This occurs because both alcohol and these medications are metabolized by the liver, and their combined presence can overwhelm the organ, leading to heightened sensitivity or toxicity. Understanding which medications are known to interact negatively with alcohol is crucial for anyone experiencing sudden alcohol intolerance. If you experience new or severe reactions after consuming alcohol, consult a healthcare professional. While mild symptoms may not always require a doctor’s visit, persistent or worsening reactions warrant medical attention. This is especially true if symptoms are severe, such as intense pain, difficulty breathing, or signs resembling anaphylaxis, which requires immediate emergency care.

• In some settings they may suggest genetic testing for ALDH2 or other enzymes, or imaging of the liver.
• While it is most commonly observed in individuals of East Asian descent, it can occur in anyone, regardless of their ethnic background.
• Treatment for alcohol intolerance typically involves avoiding or reducing alcohol consumption.
• They can also assess potential interactions between alcohol and any medications you may be taking.

Alcohol Allergy vs. Intolerance

• Alcohol allergy, on the other hand, is caused because your body’s immune system attacks a component of an alcoholic beverage.
• Alcohol intolerance due to enzyme deficiency is often an inherited metabolic disorder caused by a genetic mutation.
• If you’re experiencing symptoms after consuming dried fruits, try opting for fresh fruit instead.
• This results in unpleasant symptoms such as flushing of the skin, nausea, and stuffy nose.
• It’s important to speak with your doctor if you’re experiencing symptoms of alcohol intolerance and to avoid drinking alcohol until you’ve determined the cause of your symptoms.
• This may not be noticeable unless you actually feel your pulse; however, some people can feel their heart beating faster.

Certain drugs interfere directly with the enzymes responsible for alcohol metabolism in the liver. Developing alcohol intolerance can be frustrating, but it’s important to remember that it’s a Alcohol Intolerance manageable condition. Working closely with your doctor is key to identifying the root cause and developing a personalized management plan.