An actual alcohol allergy is considered rare but the reactions can be severe. An allergy to alcohol is a reaction to an allergen present in alcohol. The common allergens present in alcohol include the following:
- Hops
- Barley
- Rye
- Yeast
- Gluten
- Wheat
- Sulfites (white wine)
- Histamine (red wine)
An individual with an actual alcohol allergy must avoid drinking.
What are the indications?
Consuming even a small amount of alcohol can trigger symptoms among individuals with an actual alcohol allergy. In most cases, it includes abdominal cramping, difficulty breathing and even collapse.
The reactions to different ingredients in alcoholic beverages can trigger various symptoms such as:
- Hives or anaphylaxis if allergic to sulfites
- Nasal swelling and congestion if allergic to histamine
- Asthmatic symptoms among those with asthma
- Severe reactions among those with food allergies
The other symptoms linked to the ingredients present in alcoholic beverages might include the following:
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Nasal congestion including stuffed or runny nose
- Nausea
- Heartburn
- Rapid heartbeat
Some individuals might suffer facial reddening (flushing) when alcohol is consumed. The alcohol flush reaction is likely among those with Asian lineage brought about by polymorphism. Remember that this is not an allergic response but a side effect of alcohol intake in some individuals.
Management of alcohol allergy
The only way to avoid the symptoms of an alcohol allergy is to avoid consumption of alcohol. An alternative beverage might solve the issue if allergic to a specific ingredient.
Antihistamines can be useful in managing the minor symptoms in some individuals. Those who experienced a severe allergic reaction to certain foods must wear a medical alert bracelet and ask the doctor if there is a need to bring along an emergency epinephrine auto-injector such as an EpiPen during a severe allergic reaction.