Is alcohol intolerance the same as an alcohol allergy?

Is alcohol intolerance the same as an alcohol allergy?

People often confuse alcohol intolerance and alcohol allergy, but they aren’t the same condition.

Alcohol intolerance is a genetic, metabolic disorder of the digestive system. Your body doesn’t process alcohol the way it should.

Alcohol allergy is an immune system response — your immune system overreacts to an ingredient in alcohol. You may be allergic to one of the substances in alcohol (a chemical, grain or preservative, such as sulfite).

The symptoms differ slightly. Both alcohol intolerance and an allergy can cause nausea. But the hallmark symptom of alcohol intolerance is flushing of the skin of the chest, neck and face.

Symptoms of an alcohol allergy include rashes, itchiness, swelling and severe stomach cramps. Allergy symptoms are often more painful and uncomfortable than alcohol intolerance symptoms. In rare cases, if untreated, an alcohol allergy can be life-threatening.

If you have any unpleasant symptoms after drinking alcohol, see your healthcare provider. Your provider can help get to the bottom of your symptoms and recommend the best next steps.