In some people, intolerance or allergy to alcohol can also result in uncomfortable or even dangerous symptoms. This article discusses allergies to alcohol, symptoms, triggers, tests, and treatment options.
Allergy vs. Intolerance
Although an intolerance may cause similar symptoms to allergies, intolerance is not the same as an allergy.
People with an intolerance to a food or beverage may experience symptoms that are uncomfortable but not life-threatening. Those who have an allergy, however, could have serious reactions if they consume something they are allergic to.
While an intolerance can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, with an allergy, there is a chance anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction, can occur. Intolerances do not cause anaphylaxis.
An intolerance to something like food or drink often is experienced in the digestive system. An intolerance may occur for a variety of reasons, including:
Enzyme deficiencySensitivity to certain food additivesReactions to chemicals that occur naturally in some foods and drinks
If people with a food intolerance eat or drink something they are intolerant to, they may experience some uncomfortable symptoms. These include:
HeadachesNauseaCrampsStomach painDiarrheaIrritabilityGas
An allergy involves the immune system. When the immune system views something (an allergen) as a threat, it attempts to defend the body. When it does this, it produces antibodies known as immunoglobin E (IgE). These antibodies then work with cells to cause an allergic reaction.
Unlike the symptoms of intolerance, an allergic reaction can be serious and even life-threatening. An allergic reaction may cause a variety of symptoms involving the skin, the gastrointestinal system, and the respiratory system.
It can also lead to anaphylaxis, which is an emergency.
Symptoms of Wine Allergy
While a sensitivity to alcohol is thought to impact roughly 10% of the population, an allergy to alcohol is believed to be less common.
In those with a serious wine allergy, a single milliliter of alcohol can trigger a reaction.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
Breathing difficultiesStomach crampsSevere rashCollapse
Mild and Moderate Reactions
Those with an allergy to alcohol may experience a range of symptoms associated with food allergies.
These include:
Trouble swallowingDizzinessWheezingTingling sensation in the mouthItchy rashDiarrheaPain in the abdomenNauseaVomitingSwelling in the face or other parts of the bodySneezingItchy eyesFeeling light-headed
Allergens in Wine
There are numerous potential allergens found in wine. These include proteins, enzymes, dairy products, molds, and ingredients used in the production of wine.
The symptoms of anaphylaxis can appear suddenly and will quickly get worse. They may include:
A swollen tongueCollapseDifficulties with speaking and swallowingBreathing problemsTightness in the chestFeeling dizzyFeeling faint
In the event of anaphylaxis, call an ambulance or go to the emergency room immediately.
Sulfites, histamines, and tannins are among some of the substances believed to contribute to a wine intolerance.
Sulfites
Sulfites are an ingredient used to make beverages and foods last longer. They are found in a number of products, including wine and beer. The reason some people have an intolerance to sulfites is unknown, but both genetics and the environment could be contributing factors.
Histamines
A reaction to histamine can occur after drinking red wine. Histamine is made during the production process of fermentation. It is one of the main causes of intolerance to wine.
Tannins
Tannins are a compound derived from the grapes used to produce wine. Tannins contribute to the flavor and color of wine and can cause intolerance. Tannins in red wine have also been associated with migraines.
Diagnosis and Allergy Tests
To make a diagnosis of allergy, a healthcare provider will first take a medical history and do a physical exam. It is likely they will then order allergy tests.
A variety of tests are used to diagnose allergies. These include:
Skin prick test: This is one of the most common allergy tests. During this test, a small amount of the suspected allergen is placed on the skin. The skin is then lightly pricked so the allergen can move under the skin. The skin is then examined for a reaction like redness or a rash. However, this test does have a high false-positive rate. Blood test: A blood test for allergies involves taking a sample of blood to measure the level of antibodies in the blood. However, this test does have a high false-positive rate. Challenge tests: This test is performed under medical supervision and involves ingesting a suspected allergen and waiting to see if there is a reaction.
Treatment and Prevention
If you suspect you have an allergy to wine, make an appointment with a healthcare provider. Only a healthcare provider can formally diagnose allergies.
Those who have an allergy or intolerance to wine should follow the directions of their healthcare provider and may be asked to refrain from drinking red wine. In some cases, a healthcare provider may identify an allergy to a specific ingredient or compound in wine, like grapes.
It is possible those with an intolerance to wine may also have an intolerance to other things. For example, if a person is found to be intolerant to the sulfites found in wine, they may also need to avoid other foods that contain sulfites like:
Beer Dried fruit Some types of frozen or preserved shrimp Canned fruit or vegetables Deli meats Sausages
Summary
An allergy to wine is believed to be rare, though an intolerance to wine that impacts roughly 10% of people. Those with an intolerance to wine may react to certain ingredients found in wine, including histamines, sulfites, and tannins. They may experience a variety of symptoms on the skin, in the respiratory system, and in the digestive system.
Allergy testing is the only way to formally diagnose allergies. Those who are found to have an allergy to a specific ingredient in wine like grapes may need to avoid other foods containing those ingredients.
A Word From Verywell
Dealing with allergies can be challenging. If you suspect you have an allergy or intolerance to wine, consider making an appointment with a healthcare provider. They will be able to refer you to an allergist for testing.
This could be due to an intolerance to histamine.
Red wine has higher levels of histamine than white wine.
Some alcoholic drinks have higher levels of histamine than others. Red wine has more histamine than white wine and beer.
