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Though alergic reactions to alcohol are rarely reported, but
certain non-allergic adverse reactions to alcohol such as
flushing, irritant reactions, toxic reactions as well as
physiological effects are more commonly reported. it is
stated that as little as just 1 ml of pure alcohol which
equals to 10 ml of wine or mouthful of beer is enough to
aggravate severe rashes, difficulty breathing, stomach
cramps or collapse which is known as anaphylaxis in medical
terms. In such condition the body consistently generates
small amounts of alcohol itself, so the reason that such
reactions occur is scantily understood.
The mechanism of alergic reactions to alcohol is yet vague
as it is not believed to be mediated by IgE and is most
likely that breakdown products of alcohol like acetic acid
or acetaldehyde are less potent of causing allergic
reactions anyway.
There are numerous sources of alcohol including alcoholic
soft drinks, mixes, spiked drinks, food marinades or even
tomato-puree. Over-ripe fruits can ferment resulting in
adequate alcohol production to cause reaction. Certain
medicines like cough syrups also contain alcohol like some
injectable medications.
People with alcohol allergy should be treated in the same
way as others with serious alergic reactions – detect and
avert the cause and carry adrenaline – epinephrine as an
emergency action tool in case they experience serious
allergic reactions accidentally.
Alcohol is believed to deteriorate the symptoms in patients
having hives or urticaria. Seldom alcohol may also activate
hives directly. Less common symptoms like localized contact
hives and contact dermatitis.
The effects of toxicity of alcohol are known like affecting
the liver, stomach, brain and mental functions to great
extent. Though alcohol has relaxant effect on the brain,
some people may experience inconsistent shakeup and anxiety,
which are perhaps due to drug-like function of the alcohol.
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