When you got into your new role as VP of finance, you had some hesitations. These reservations weren’t about the job itself. You were more than qualified to handle all 30 of the firm’s accounts, but it’s what came with those accounts that worried you. Your boss explained how it is seen as disrespectful to turn down refreshments offered by clients. And most of the time, those offerings are alcohol.
You have never been able to drink like “normal” people. It seems like no matter what type of alcohol you try, you always have a reaction. You instantly feel warm, dizzy, and itchy after just one drink. In college, your friends all made fun of you for not being able to be there during beer pong and keg stands. How are you going to explain to your boss that you really cannot drink alcohol?
In Pinellas County, 30.3% of people who made over $50,000 per year engaged in binge or heavy drinking in 2019. At Tranquil Shores, we know how difficult it can be to maintain a high-ranking position with copious amounts of stress. Our alcohol use disorder programs are individually tailored, and we even have a specific program for business executives. With the help of our blog, we are working to educate families and friends of loved ones who are living with addiction. Today, we are discussing alcohol intolerance and what it entails.
Symptoms and Signs of Alcohol Intolerance
Alcohol intolerance is a very specific, metabolic condition. Most people compare it to having an allergy, but that is not the case. Allergies are immune responses, triggered by the body. Ingredients in alcohol such as grains or the distilling process and materials can all cause an allergic reaction. However, this reaction is preventable. By learning what is sparking the allergic reaction, the ingredients can be avoided. Medications can also treat allergies.
In the case of alcohol intolerance, the body actually has a genetic mutation. When alcohol is consumed, it works its way through the bloodstream and ends up in the liver for processing and removal. The liver uses an enzyme called alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) to turn alcohol into acetaldehyde. With the help of aldehyde dehydrogenase, acetaldehyde is turned into acetate. With the help of other tissues, the acetate is broken down into carbon dioxide and water.
The gene responsible for processing alcohol in the liver is the ALDH2 gene. Alcohol intolerance is a mutation of this gene, meaning those who have it cannot process alcohol in the same process. The mutation does not allow aldehyde dehydrogenase to turn acetaldehyde into acetate. The reason this causes problems is because acetaldehyde is a known carcinogen, and the longer it stays in the body, the higher the risk of developing conditions such as liver cancer.
Symptoms of alcohol intolerance include:
- Flushing of the neck and face
- Redness of the face
- Rapid heart rate
- Nausea or vomiting
- Runny nose
- Low blood pressure
- Headaches
When to See a Doctor for Alcohol Intolerance
Experiencing symptoms of alcohol intolerance is not necessarily a cause for alarm. If you have always been unable to drink and showed signs of intolerance, genetic testing can determine if you are positive for the mutation. If you are showing any signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition that closes the airway during an allergic reaction and should be treated as an emergency.
If you have never had symptoms of alcohol intolerance and they suddenly appear, it is time to see a doctor. Some medical conditions can cause alcohol intolerance to appear and set in rapidly, such as Hodgkin’s lymphoma. In some cases, pain can be associated with this.
The Risk Factors for Alcohol Intolerance
As stated above, some medical conditions can trigger alcohol intolerance to occur. However, the genetic mutation is most common in those of Eastern Asian descent. It is estimated that 45% of East Asians have the genetic mutation. In fact, alcohol intolerance is nicknamed the “Asian flush” because of the flushing of the face and neck after only one drink.
Complications of Alcohol Intolerance
Because acetaldehyde stays in the body longer in those with alcohol intolerance, there is a higher risk for health complications. Various cancers such as mouth, liver, lung, and throat can occur. Some people experience headaches that turn into migraines after drinking. The heart can become stressed in those who continue to drink with intolerance and can weaken. In some, late-onset Alzheimer’s disease was also a complication associated with intolerance.
How Long Does it Take for Alcohol Intolerance to Show?
Alcohol intolerance shows up almost immediately after drinking has begun. The symptoms typically continue for 3-4 hours after drinking. When more alcohol is consumed, the symptoms will be prolonged. Some will feel like they are hungover, with headaches and nausea. Others will feel as if they are intoxicated, with dizziness appearing after only one or two drinks.
Alcohol is absorbed through the stomach and small intestine linings, and eating before drinking may delay the onset of symptoms. However, there is no way to stop them from happening, they will occur every time alcohol is consumed. The best prevention is to avoid alcohol altogether.
Some have also stated that taking an antihistamine before drinking has helped delay symptoms. This is not recommended as antihistamines cause drowsiness, and when paired with alcohol, the effects are increased. This can lead to increased impaired coordination, leading to trips or falls that may result in serious injuries.
It is important to note that those with alcohol intolerance are not actually intoxicated, and having the condition does not raise blood alcohol content. Intolerance also does not keep alcohol in the system longer, only its byproduct. However, the symptoms of intolerance may make it difficult to drive, even if the person is under the legal limit of .08%.
Getting Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder in Pinellas County
People living with alcohol intolerance are less likely to develop an alcohol use disorder. However, even continuing to drink one or two drinks every day can be detrimental to their health in the same manner. They may still benefit from alcohol use disorder treatment to help protect their health and well-being. With therapy and skill-building, they will be able to rediscover themselves and their passions beyond alcohol. With the support of family, recovery from alcohol use disorder is possible and achievable.
If you or someone you love is managing an alcohol use disorder, whether intolerant or not, treatment is available. Tranquil Shores has a dedicated staff that values your needs and protects your privacy. Located directly on the beach, you will receive daily therapy while enjoying the beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Our facility is secluded and comparable to luxury condos, and your confidentiality is protected on all levels. Call us today at 727-391-7001 to learn more about our program offerings.
FAQs
Can you suddenly become intolerant to alcohol?
It is possible to suddenly become intolerant of alcohol. This can be a sign of a serious condition, such as Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and should be evaluated by a doctor.
How do you test your alcohol tolerance?
You can find out if you have alcohol intolerance from a genetic test or from consuming alcohol. In those who do not have intolerance, alcohol tolerance increases over time with increased consumption. There is no way to truly test your tolerance in any one moment, as factors such as weight and eating beforehand can affect tolerance.
