Alcohol makes you sick because your body struggles to metabolize ethanol, often due to genetic factors, dehydration, or inflammation. These reactions range from mild discomfort to severe illness.
When you drink alcohol, your liver breaks down ethanol into acetaldehyde, a toxic compound. Your liver then converts acetaldehyde into acetate, which is harmless and easily eliminated. However, this process can overwhelm your liver, especially if you drink too much or too quickly.
The most common reasons alcohol makes you sick include:
Alcohol intolerance and alcohol allergy are often confused, but they are different. Alcohol intolerance is a negative reaction to drinking alcohol, usually due to genetic factors or dehydration. An alcohol allergy is an immune system response to an ingredient in alcoholic beverages, such as yeast or grains.
Symptoms of an alcohol allergy can include rash, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. If you experience these symptoms after drinking alcohol, you should see a doctor.
If you experience mild symptoms after drinking alcohol, such as nausea or headache, you can try the following remedies:
If you experience severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or confusion, seek medical attention immediately.
The best way to prevent alcohol-related illness is to drink in moderation. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans define moderate drinking as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.
You should also avoid drinking on an empty stomach, as this can increase the rate of alcohol absorption and lead to faster intoxication., you should stay hydrated by drinking water between alcoholic beverages.
If you have a history of alcohol-related illness or are concerned about your drinking habits, you should talk to your doctor. They can provide guidance on safe drinking practices and help you determine if you have an underlying condition, such as alcohol intolerance or an alcohol allergy.