Alcohol Intolerance

Alcohol intolerance is a condition in which the body is unable to properly break down and process alcohol, leading to adverse reactions after consuming even small amounts of alcohol.

Causes

Alcohol intolerance is often caused by a deficiency of an enzyme called aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), which is responsible for breaking down a toxic compound called acetaldehyde that is produced when the body metabolizes alcohol. This deficiency can be inherited or acquired due to various factors, such as:

• Genetic mutations
• Certain medications, such as antibiotics and antihistamines
• Underlying medical conditions, such as liver disease or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of vitamin B12 or folate

Symptoms

The symptoms of alcohol intolerance can vary in severity and may include:

• Flushing or redness of the face, neck, and chest
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Headaches or migraines
• Fatigue or weakness
• Stomach cramps or diarrhea

Diagnosis

Diagnosing alcohol intolerance can be challenging, as the symptoms may be similar to those of other conditions. A healthcare provider may use a combination of the following methods to diagnose alcohol intolerance:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Questionnaires or surveys to assess drinking habits and symptoms
• Blood tests to check for liver function, vitamin deficiencies, or other underlying conditions
• Genetic testing to identify inherited enzyme deficiencies

Treatment

Treatment for alcohol intolerance typically involves avoiding or reducing alcohol consumption. In some cases, medications or supplements may be prescribed to help manage symptoms or address underlying conditions.

• Avoiding triggers, such as certain types of alcohol or foods that can exacerbate symptoms
• Reducing alcohol intake or switching to low-acetaldehyde beverages, such as beer or wine
• Taking antihistamines or other medications to alleviate symptoms
• Supplementing with vitamins, such as vitamin B12 or folate, to address nutritional deficiencies

Complications

If left untreated or poorly managed, alcohol intolerance can lead to complications, such as:

• Liver damage or disease
• Gastrointestinal problems, such as gastritis or ulcers
• Nutritional deficiencies and related health issues
• Increased risk of certain cancers, such as esophageal cancer

Prevention

To prevent or reduce the severity of alcohol intolerance symptoms, individuals can take the following steps:

• Avoiding or reducing alcohol consumption
• Eating a balanced diet to maintain nutritional health
• Avoiding triggers, such as certain foods or medications that can exacerbate symptoms
• Seeking medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen over time