So, if you notice these symptoms after drinking, sulfites could be the culprit. In addition to these genetic factors, recent discussions have emerged about a potential link between long COVID and alcohol intolerance. Some people who are recovering from COVID-19 have noticed that their alcohol intolerance symptoms have either cropped up for the first time or have gotten worse. This might have something to do with how long COVID impacts the body’s metabolism and energy levels, especially considering conditions like post-viral fatigue syndrome. As researchers explore this relationship further, we may gain valuable insights into how the lingering effects of COVID-19 impact our bodies’ ability to process alcohol. While a blood allergy test can help identify an allergy to certain components in alcoholic beverages, it won’t confirm alcohol intolerance.

• Alcohol intolerance is a genetically inherited metabolic condition, similar to a gluten or lactose intolerance.
• Anxiety related to poor food choices especially arise if you’re trying to improve your diet or make lifestyle changes.
• For people who have alcohol intolerance due to a medication, stopping the medication will likely resolve the alcohol intolerance.
• Allergy symptoms are often more painful and uncomfortable than alcohol intolerance symptoms.

Alcohol Intolerance: Key Symptoms and Practical Management Strategies

For example, people with a genetic predisposition have altered dopamine responses, either heightened or reduced, making them more vulnerable to addiction. Behavioral therapy, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Contingency Management, plays a vital role in addressing the psychological aspects of addiction. Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and SMART Recovery offer peer support and accountability, enhancing recovery outcomes.

Medical Reviewer

• Complications of alcohol intolerance can lead to migraines or, in rare cases, severe allergic reactions (anaphylactic reactions) that require emergency treatment.
• Unlike the immediate symptoms, these symptoms may or may not happen when alcohol is used.
• Anxiety occurs in addition to the typical health risks, which range from risky behaviors to weight gain, liver damage, and other physical effects.
• Contingency management provides tangible rewards for meeting sobriety goals reinforcing healthy behaviors.

The long-term consequences of alcohol addiction include chronic liver disease, cardiovascular problems, mental health disorders, and reduced life expectancy. These effects worsen over time and are life-threatening if not addressed through appropriate treatment and lifestyle changes. During the middle stage, medical detoxification is necessary to manage withdrawal symptoms safely, followed by structured therapy and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to prevent relapse. It is important to remember that for someone with alcohol intolerance, avoiding alcohol is more than just not drinking alcoholic beverages. Alcohol in cough syrups or some kombucha could trigger alcohol intolerance.

• By being aware of these differences, you can better recognise how your body reacts and make more informed choices about drinking.
• They will typically happen rapidly enough that there is no question as to if it was the alcohol that caused it or not.
• With a few thoughtful choices, you can enjoy social gatherings without sacrificing your well-being.
• Alcohol-related dementia and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, called “wet brain,” are severe cognitive disorders linked to long-term alcohol abuse.
• During the pre-alcoholic stage, individuals engage in alcohol consumption to cope with emotional distress, gradually developing alcohol dependence.
• This is typically more than just feeling queasy, but severe abdominal cramping and retching that occurs very soon after drinking alcohol.

Severe Withdrawal Symptoms

Alcohol-related dementia and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, called “wet brain,” are severe cognitive disorders linked alcohol intolerance to long-term alcohol abuse. In middle-stage addiction, individuals continue to consume alcohol even when faced with negative consequences such as strained relationships, job loss, or declining health. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), persistent drinking despite harmful outcomes is a hallmark of alcohol use disorder. This behavior indicates a diminishing ability to prioritize responsibilities over alcohol consumption, further deepening dependence. Though drinking can temporarily blunt feelings of anxiety, this isn’t a suitable method to manage anxiety (or any mental health condition).

“Alcohol and sulphites tend to evaporate away during cooking, so the potential for intolerances is certainly reduced,” Dr Watts says. However, if you’re allergic to an ingredient found in certain alcoholic drinks, dishes which contain that drink are not safe to eat. The best way to live with this condition is to avoid alcohol as much as possible. Avoiding alcohol will allow you to live an active, enjoyable life without unpleasant symptoms. Your healthcare provider will ask you about the symptoms and reactions that occur after you drink alcohol.