Allergic To Alcohol – Is That A Thing?

Allergic To Alcohol – Is that a thing?

Studies have shown about a third of Japanese, Chinese, and Koreans respond to alcohol by turning red. This condition is knows as “Alcohol Flush Reaction” and many refer to it as an allergy to alcohol.  The reaction is a condition in which an individual develops flushes or blotches associated with erythema on the face, neck, shoulders, and, in some cases, the entire body after consuming alcoholic beverages. The reaction is the result of an accumulation of acetaldehyde, a metabolic byproduct of the catabolic metabolism of alcohol, and is caused by an aldehyde dehydrogenase deficiency.  This syndrome has been associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer in those who drink. It has also been associated with lower than average rates of alcoholism, possibly due to its association with adverse effects after drinking alcohol.  Since the mutation is a genetic issue, there is no cure for the flush reaction. Prevention would include not drinking alcohol.

So, the answer is yes – you can be allergic to alcohol.