Beer is one of the oldest and highly preferred beverages that are produced via a brewing process that utilizes yeast to ferment sugars from starch such as wheat or barley to produce alcohol.
Even though it is considered uncommon, some individuals can end up with allergic reactions after consuming beer. Based on a study conducted, this reaction is usually linked with certain proteins or components that vary among beers and does not necessarily indicate an allergy to all types of beer. Due to the variety of proteins or ingredients that are capable of instigating an allergic reaction, the symptoms and their severity tend to vary from one individual to another. A doctor should be consulted if the individual has any concerns regarding allergic symptoms after consuming beer.
Allergens from barley
The usual culprits for allergic reactions among those who drink beer are the proteins derived from barley. The common reactions include hives and a serious reaction known as angioedema which is a rash similar to hives that is accompanied by swelling that manifests under the skin, particularly around the lips or eyes.
In case the swelling occurs in the mouth or throat, it can cause the blockage of the airway, resulting to wheezing or difficulty breathing or swallowing. These symptoms require immediate medical care.
Allergens from sorghum
Nowadays, many individuals are opting to stick with a gluten-free diet. Due to this, many manufacturers produce beer brewed with sorghum instead of wheat or barley which results to a gluten-free beer. Some individuals end up with allergic reaction after consuming beer.
Hypersensitivity to sorghum is the typical reaction in some individuals but other beer components including hops, barley and yeast can also trigger reactions. Based on studies conducted, the symptoms typically persist for more than 2 hours and include swelling, hives, skin lesions and even fever.
Contact allergy
There is a possibility but rare for the beer to trigger an itchy skin rash or hives after being exposed to the skin. In a study conducted, it is believed that the reaction of the skin was likely due to malt but brewer’s yeast is also known to contribute to the reaction.
Beer-induced anaphylaxis
There is a possibility that beer can trigger an anaphylactic reaction in some individuals. Anaphylaxis is a systemic, severe reaction that leads to an abrupt drop in the blood pressure along with the constriction or narrowing of the airway so that breathing and swallowing is not possible.
It is important to note that this reaction is extremely rare. Once an individual experiences this form of reaction, severe symptoms such as these are considered life-threatening and require immediate emergency care.