A member asked:

I've had no problems drinking alcohol in the past. but last week, i had a very bad reaction. how is this possible?

5 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Hard to answer...: Allergic reactions develop against large molecules such as proteins. Ethanol is a very small molecule and doesn't elicit an antibody response, so can't cause true allergies. Most reactions to alcohol are related to a toxic effect as the body tries to metabolize it. Rarely, other substances (like grapes in wine or grains in beer) can cause reactions. See an allergist to help you find a cause.

Answered 3/28/2015

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Etoh: Etoh is a spontaneous mast cell degranulator. Can cause all over flushing and feelings of awfulness. Also, maybe you simply drank too much?!?!

Answered 3/31/2014

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