We can all agree that there are pros and cons to drinking alcoholic beverages, health experts will tell you how they benefit the body and mind and with the same breath, they can shed light on how dangerous alcohol can be. It sometimes depends on what you consume and how much of it you do.
Some people though, don’t have the opportunity to experience the health advantages and pleasures of drinking alcoholic beverages due to them being intolerant to them.
The Mayo Clinic states that “Alcohol intolerance is caused by a genetic condition in which the body can’t break down alcohol efficiently.” The Cleveland Clinic clarifies the difference between alcohol intolerance and allergy and states that intolerance is a digestive system disorder, while alcohol allergy is an immune system response to alcohol’s ingredients, such as chemicals, grains, or preservatives.
So, how would you know if you are alcohol intolerant? Health publications claim several signs indicate this and you need to look out for them.
According to WebMD, the following symptoms appear immediately after alcohol intake:
- Red, flushed face
- Diarrhea
- Hot sensation
- Headaches
- Heartburn
- Hives
- Rash
- Heart palpitations
- Low blood pressure
- Stuffy nose
- Stomach pain, which may include nausea or vomiting
- Trouble breathing
- Worsened asthma symptoms
Healthline suggests that for one to avoid being a victim of this condition, you need to make use of these techniques:
- Complete abstinence from all alcoholic beverages to prevent symptoms.
- Moderation and limitation of alcohol consumption to manage intake and body response.
- Practice moderation by starting with small quantities, avoiding rapid consumption, choosing lower alcohol beverages, “Avoid mixing different types of alcohol.”
Also see: Does alcohol relieve stress?
