Understanding Alcohol Intolerance and Allergy: What You Need to Know
If you’ve ever woken up after a night of drinking with a throbbing headache, nausea, and an insatiable thirst, you’re not alone. However, experiencing similar symptoms after just one drink can be perplexing and concerning. This reaction may indicate the onset of alcohol intolerance, a condition that can develop unexpectedly and affect individuals who previously had no issues with alcohol consumption.
Alcohol intolerance is distinct from an alcohol allergy, which is relatively rare. According to Jeffrey Factor, an allergist-immunologist and fellow of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, alcohol intolerances are much more prevalent. Symptoms of alcohol intolerance can include flushed cheeks, stuffy nose, nausea, and headaches after consuming even a small amount of alcohol.