An alcohol intolerance can develop quickly, for seemingly no reason.
Here’s how to spot the signs.
In reality, an alcohol intolerance is different from an alcohol allergy.
Alcohol intolerances are much more common than a true alcohol allergy.
The only way to truly know is to see an allergist, Maskatia said.
Whats the difference between an alcohol allergy and an intolerance?
An alcohol allergy and an intolerance are sometimes confused, but theyre not the same, Factor said.
Factor said true alcohol allergies are pretty rare.
For instance, some people might not be able to metabolize alcohol properly.
Whats confusing about the two conditions is that their symptoms can overlap, Maskatia said.
An alcohol allergy can cause a rash, swelling, vomiting and anaphylaxis in extreme cases.
How do you know if you have an allergy or an intolerance?
It can be tricky, Factor said.
Theres really no good testing available for allergy to alcohol.
Unlike other kinds of allergies, a skin test wont specifically reveal an alcohol allergy, he explained.
However, doctors will talk to you about your symptoms and when you experience them, Maskatia said.
you could develop allergies to these substancesat any age.
Its not clear why some people suddenly start experiencing these intolerances or allergies later in life.
Genetics and environmental exposures are another factor, Maskatia said.
Theres also new research suggesting such changes could be COVID-related.
But Maskatia said this doesnt apply to alcoholic beverages.
So its not always evident whats in the alcohol youre drinking.
Plus, you might be ordering from a bar and not even have access to the bottle.
you might adopt adry lifestyleor just avoid certain drinks that cause your symptoms.
Its not a very pleasing solution for a lot of people, but thats what it is.
This article originally appeared onHuffPost.
