The onset of symptoms is usually noticed by slightly more laboured breathing after consuming alcohol. Most sufferers will first report minor breathing difficulties, traditionally accompanied by a noticeable increase in heart rate. While it doesn’t happen to all individuals with this condition, it’s still fairly common. Labored or restricted breathing can be commonly brought on by alcohol intolerance. Those with existing heart conditions will also need to be careful before you drink alcohol in case alcohol intolerance could exacerbate their pre-existing conditions. Alcohol usually contains sulfite compounds, and it is important to be aware of your sensitivity.
Allergies and Sensitivities
Alcohol-induced sneezing is a peculiar phenomenon that affects a small percentage of individuals. While the exact cause is not fully understood, several theories attempt to explain why some people experience this reaction. In this article, we will explore the possible reasons behind why you may sneeze after drinking alcohol. It may suggest an allergic reaction or sensitivity to alcohol, but alcoholism is diagnosed based on behavioral and physical patterns related alcoholism treatment to excessive and uncontrollable drinking. For those experiencing sneezing as part of withdrawal, practical management strategies can alleviate discomfort. Over-the-counter antihistamines may provide temporary relief, but caution is advised, as some medications can interact with withdrawal symptoms.
How Alcohol Affects Our Immune Response
- When we think about alcohol tolerance, we often think of the number of drinks a person can handle before getting giggly or slurring words.
- As such, it is important for those who suffer from this condition to be aware of the potential risk that drinking certain cocktails may pose.
To sum up, sneezing is a reflex that clears the respiratory tract of irritants (e.g., dust), viruses, bacteria, and allergens. The sneezing reflex should not be inhibited, but you should not sneeze on other people – this is how viruses and bacteria are transmitted via the so-called droplet route. Reframe supports you in reducing alcohol consumption and enhancing your well-being. Simply put, allergies are our immune system’s response to an allergen, such as pollen, bee venom, pet dander, or certain drugs or foods. They occur when our immune system mistakenly identifies these harmless foreign substances as a threat.
- However, chronic conditions and extensive damage may only be manageable rather than fully reversible.
- Specialists presume that one sick person in an office can directly infect up to three others, so it’s essential to cover your nose and mouth when sneezing to prevent the spread of germs.
- If symptoms persist, consult an allergist or immunologist to rule out underlying conditions like non-allergic rhinitis.
- It is important to differentiate between an alcohol allergy, which is a rare immune system response, and alcohol intolerance, which is far more common.
The Congestion Connection

The study found that the effects of sulfites in wine can vary from mild to severe. The most common symptoms reported by those with sulfite sensitivity are nausea, headaches and skin rashes. In extreme cases, symptoms such as difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis have been reported. It’s important to be aware of this potential reaction before drinking white wine, as it could lead to an unpleasant experience.

General Health

For individuals experiencing sneezing from red wine, several strategies can help manage these reactions. Opting can alcohol cause sneezing for red wines with lower levels of histamines or sulfites may reduce symptoms. Drinking water alongside wine can help dilute alcohol’s effects and promote hydration, potentially mitigating some nasal congestion.
