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Home / Blog / Can You Develop an Allergy to Alcohol Later in Life?

Can You Develop an Allergy to Alcohol Later in Life?

Posted by Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy

The information provided below and throughout this website is presented for general educational purposes only and does NOT constitute professional medical advice. This information is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice and NO material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a health or a medical condition. Never disregard the advice of a medical professional or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

It’s possible for adults to notice allergic reactions to alcoholic beverages, even if they’ve never had issues before. Though true alcohol allergies are rare, they still occur and can cause severe symptoms like rashes, trouble breathing, stomach cramps, collapse, or anaphylaxis.

Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy’s nationally recognized allergy specialists bring deep expertise in identifying triggers and advising on care for late-onset reactions. Get in touch by visiting one of our more than 17 offices.

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Woman examining a wine bottle in a store aisle, checking the label carefully.
An alcohol allergy is an immune response where the body identifies alcohol as a harmful intruder.

According to The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, True alcohol allergies are quite rare, under 1% of the global population.

Developing Late-Onset Alcohol Allergy

  1. You can develop an alcohol allergy in adulthood, even if you never had problems before.
  2. Ingredients in alcoholic beverages, such as sulfites, histamines, and specific grains, can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
  3. Alcohol allergy often causes more severe symptoms than intolerance, such as skin rashes or breathing trouble.
  4. Age, genetics, and certain health conditions can raise the chance of developing a late-onset alcohol allergy.
  5. Proper medical evaluation, including allergy testing, is essential to confirm an alcohol allergy and differentiate it from other conditions.

What Is an Alcohol Allergy?

An alcohol allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies alcohol as a harmful substance, triggering an allergic reaction. This reaction involves the production of allergy-specific antibodies. Common allergens in alcoholic beverages that can cause such reactions are barley, hops, yeast, rye, wheat, gluten, and sulfites.

These allergens can be present in various types of alcohol, so it is essential for individuals with an alcohol allergy to carefully read beverage labels and understand the ingredients. Apart from the usual triggers, you might also be affected by other ingredients—like leftovers from the fermentation process, artificial fruit flavors, or even seafood proteins—that can set off allergic reactions. Keep an eye out for these possible culprits to reduce the risk of unwanted symptoms.

How is Alcohol Allergy Different from Alcohol Intolerance?

An allergy to alcohol occurs if your immune system responds negatively to alcohol, bringing signs such as hives, swelling, or difficulty with breathing. Alcohol intolerance, however, is present if your body has issues breaking down alcohol as it should. This is most often because of one’s genetics. It can cause unpleasant reactions, such as flushing or feeling sick.

Sometimes, what looks like intolerance might be a reaction to specific ingredients, such as chemicals, grains, or preservatives in the drink. Common signs of alcohol intolerance include flushed skin, hives, worsened asthma, stuffy nose, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Alcohol allergy can cause severe reactions like hives and anaphylaxis.
It differs from intolerance, involving an immune system reaction to alcohol.

Not sure if alcohol is making you feel off?

Contact the expert allergists at Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy. We’re here to provide answers, care, and lasting relief.

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General Symptoms & Signs

The symptoms of an alcohol allergy can vary widely, ranging from mild intolerances to severe, dangerous allergic reactions. On the other hand, symptoms of alcohol intolerance, a more common condition, can be uncomfortable and sometimes severe.

Symptoms of Alcohol Allergy

Itchy rashes
Trouble breathing
Stomach upset
Life-threatening anaphylactic reaction
Shortness of breath
Loss of consciousness

Symptoms of Alcohol Intolerance

Facial redness (flushing)
Warmth or redness on the neck, chest, or face
Headache
Nausea
Vomiting
Fast heartbeat

Risk Factors for Developing an Allergy to Alcohol Later in Life

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing an allergy to alcohol later in life. These factors include age, genetic predisposition, pre-existing health conditions, and excessive alcohol consumption.

Individuals of Asian descent, those with asthma or hay fever, or those with allergies to grains or other foods are at higher risk for alcohol intolerance.

Age Group at Higher Risk

Although an alcohol allergy can start at any age, certain groups face a higher chance of developing one. If you’re a young adult who drinks heavily, watch for warning signs like facial redness, itchy skin bumps, or an upset stomach. Many people between 20 and 40 notice more alcohol-related issues because of heavier drinking patterns.

As you get older, you may suddenly find yourself more sensitive to alcohol if your body produces less of the enzyme that helps break it down. Researchers are still examining which ages are most vulnerable and why these allergies and intolerances happen.

Noticing unusual reactions to alcohol? Contact us for expert guidance today!

Alcohol allergy symptoms often appear in adults aged 20-40 due to higher alcohol consumption.
Young to middle-aged individuals are at higher risk for alcohol allergies from cumulative exposure.

Genetic Predisposition

Your genes can play a major role in whether you develop an alcohol allergy or intolerance. Many East Asians face a higher chance of alcohol intolerance because of reduced ALDH2 enzyme levels. According to a Cedars-Sinai piece by Nikolas Charles, around 30%-50% of this population experiences these reactions, often called “Asian flush” or “Asian glow.” This enzyme helps break down harmful substances in alcohol.

Key points about this process include:

  • Enzyme efficiency: Individuals with a fully active ALDH2 enzyme can metabolize alcohol efficiently, reducing the likelihood of adverse reactions.
  • Deficiency Effects: Those with an ALDH2 deficiency are more prone to experience symptoms like facial flushing, nausea, and rapid heartbeat after consuming alcohol.
Woman with facial flushing touching her cheek, illustrating a symptom of alcohol intolerance due to ALDH2 deficiency.
ALDH2 deficiency can cause facial flushing, nausea, and rapid heartbeat after alcohol consumption.

Experiencing alcohol sensitivity? Our experts can help—contact us for answers today!

Pre-existing Health Conditions

Certain medical conditions can exacerbate alcohol intolerance. These include:

  • Asthma: People with asthma may experience worsening of their symptoms after consuming alcohol.
  • Allergic Rhinitis: This condition can lead to an increased sensitivity to alcohol.
  • Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: Patients with this type of cancer may develop alcohol intolerance.
  • Enzyme Deficiency: Some people lack other enzymes necessary for alcohol metabolism, leading to similar symptoms.

Health conditions can worsen alcohol intolerance. Penn Medicine, Becker, and allergy specialists can help—reach out today!

Woman with asthma using an inhaler while sitting at home, managing breathing difficulty effectively.
Asthma symptoms can worsen after consuming alcohol.

Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption poses not only the risk of developing an alcohol allergy but also a myriad of other health complications. These complications can vary in severity, ranging from mild intolerances to more severe allergies and other adverse effects on the body. It is essential for individuals to be mindful of their alcohol intake and its potential impact on their health.

Practicing moderation and being aware of any adverse reactions to alcohol can help individuals make informed choices about their alcohol consumption and overall well-being.

Your health comes first. If alcohol is causing unexpected reactions, our experts are here to help!

Drinking too much alcohol increases histamine release, leading to severe allergic reactions.
Excessive alcohol consumption can worsen allergy symptoms like flushing, itching, and congestion.

Find Relief from Alcohol Allergy Symptoms with Trusted Care

Struggling with uncomfortable reactions to alcohol? You’re not alone—let’s work together to uncover the cause and find a solution.

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Diagnosis & Treatment for an Alcohol Allergy

Your doctor will begin with a complete medical background assessment. It helps to understand the signs you show along with any possible triggers. This assessment includes questions on alcohol drinking habits. It also concerns the kinds of drinks consumed and if relatives had allergies as well as intolerances.

The physical exam is another crucial step in the diagnostic process. Your doctor will look for signs of allergic reactions, such as skin rashes or hives, and check for other symptoms like swelling or respiratory issues. In some cases, your doctor may observe how your body reacts to a controlled amount of alcohol to identify any immediate symptoms.

To pinpoint the exact cause of your symptoms, your doctor might recommend several diagnostic tests, including:

  • Allergy tests: Skin prick tests or blood tests to check for specific allergic reactions.
  • Elimination diet: Temporarily removing alcohol from your diet to see if symptoms improve.
  • Challenge tests: Gradually reintroducing alcohol under medical supervision to monitor reactions.

These tests help determine whether your symptoms are due to an alcohol allergy, alcohol intolerance, or another underlying condition.

Living with Late-Onset Allergies

Living with a newly developed alcohol allergy calls for extra vigilance and preparation. It’s important to pay close attention to what you consume and have a plan in place for potential reactions. Key steps include:

  • Informing family, friends, and dining establishments about your allergy to ensure your safety.
  • Regular check-ups with an allergist to manage symptoms and prevent severe reactions.

Although many people are aware of alcohol intolerance—which can cause nausea, headaches, and facial flushing—it’s also possible to develop a full-blown alcohol allergy later in life. True alcohol allergies, while rare, may trigger severe reactions like trouble breathing, hives, or even anaphylaxis.

If you’re looking for an allergy clinic in Robbinsville, NJ, we serve the areas of Hamilton, Florence, Georgetown, Bordentown, or Allentown. Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy offers comprehensive allergy services and can help you manage your late-onset alcohol allergy efficiently. Contact us today and schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alcohol Allergy

Can certain types of alcohol trigger more severe allergic reactions than others?

Yes, certain alcoholic beverages can trigger more severe reactions due to their histamine and sulfite content. According to Medical News Today, red wine has higher levels of these compounds, which can cause headaches, nasal congestion, or skin flushing in sensitive individuals.
People with asthma or hay fever may be more prone to reactions from histamines in red wine. Additionally, sulfites, commonly used as preservatives in wine, can lead to respiratory or skin issues. If you experience symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.

Are there any non-alcoholic beverages that can cause similar allergic reactions?

Yes, non-alcoholic beverages like grape juice and certain soft drinks can also contain sulfites and histamines, which may trigger reactions in susceptible individuals.

Can an alcohol allergy be mistaken for a different medical condition?

Symptoms of an alcohol allergy can be similar to those of other conditions such as food allergies, alcohol intolerance, or even conditions like rosacea, which can cause facial flushing.

Is it possible to develop an alcohol allergy later in life even if you had no issues previously?

Yes, alcohol allergies can develop at any age, even if you have previously consumed alcohol without any problems. Changes in the immune system or repeated exposure to certain allergens can trigger this.

How can one differentiate between an alcohol allergy and alcohol intolerance?

Alcohol allergy typically involves an immune system response, leading to symptoms like hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing. In contrast, alcohol intolerance, often due to enzyme deficiencies, usually causes symptoms like facial flushing, nausea, and headache.

The content, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website is for informational purposes only. No content on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, nor represent the opinion of our physicians. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider for any medical condition or concern.

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