What is sudden onset alcohol intolerance? Alcohol intolerance is a condition that occurs when your body lacks the enzymes needed to fully break down alcohol. It is different from having an alcohol allergy. Alcohol intolerance can come on suddenly, even if you have consumed alcohol without problems before. The addiction treatment programs at Promises offer more information on this condition.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with an alcohol use disorder, call Promises today at 844.875.5609.
Understanding Alcohol Intolerance
Alcohol intolerance is a relatively common condition. However, many people may not realize they have an intolerance. If symptoms are mild, they can easily be mistaken for being dehydrated, tired, or under stress.
Having an alcohol intolerance doesn’t mean a person can’t drink any alcohol at all. Some people may be able to consume small amounts without discomfort, but others have to avoid alcohol completely. The symptoms of alcohol intolerance typically develop within a few minutes or a few hours after drinking.
Symptoms vary for each person but include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Flushed skin
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
- Hives
- Rapid heartbeat
- Difficulty breathing
If you experience a problem breathing or irregularities with your heartbeat, seek emergency care. Speak with your regular healthcare provider if you notice any hives, headaches, or flu-like symptoms after drinking.
Alcohol intolerance isn’t something that you “get over” by drinking more. It is a medical condition that should be taken seriously.
What is sudden onset alcohol intolerance? Some people realize they are alcohol intolerant the first time they ever have a drink. However, alcohol intolerance can occur even after an individual has consumed alcohol for many years without any issues.
If you suddenly experience the symptoms of intolerance regardless of how long or how regularly you consume alcohol, you may have sudden onset alcohol intolerance.
Why Does Sudden Onset Alcohol Intolerance Happen?
It’s always important to pay attention to your body’s signals when you’re consuming alcohol. Your body lets you know when you are at your limit. If you feel sick or develop a headache after only light drinking, it is a sign that something is wrong.
Sudden onset alcohol intolerance can be a warning sign of an additional health condition such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Hodgkin’s lymphoma, or liver disease. If symptoms continue after limiting your alcohol consumption, make sure to consult your healthcare provider.
Certain medications, such as antibiotics, can affect the body’s enzyme levels and can cause sudden intolerance. Genetics may also play a part. If a close relative has been diagnosed with sudden-onset alcohol intolerance, you may have a greater risk of developing it.
Lifestyle factors can also influence alcohol tolerance issues. Diet, activity levels, and overall health can affect your ability to break down the components of alcohol.
Coping With Alcohol Intolerance
Avoiding alcohol completely is the easiest way to prevent the symptoms of alcohol intolerance. Drinking non-alcoholic “mocktails,” refreshing juices, and sparkling water is a good way to enjoy social gatherings without feeling left out.
If you are unable to resist alcohol despite knowing that drinking has a negative impact on your immediate health, it may be a sign that you are developing an alcohol use disorder. Continuing the use of drugs or alcohol despite negative consequences is one of the major warning signs of an addiction.
What is sudden onset alcohol intolerance? If you are struggling with alcohol misuse, it could be the final factor that leads you to the help you need.
Get Help for Alcohol Use Disorder at Promises
You don’t have to spend another day feeling sick or worrying about how alcohol intolerance is impacting your life. Call 844.875.5609 today to learn more about the recovery programs at Promises.