Preservative and alcohol allergy

Hi I am a 26 year old guy living in the UK. About 5 years ago I suddenly became very allergic to all preservatives and all forms of alcoholic beverages. I am most sensitive to sulfites but certainly react to all other preservatives. My symptoms are not life threatening but very irritating. My skin becomes very itchy and “burny” and I become generally just very tired. These symptoms persist for up to a day and a half. This allergy has absolutely taken over my life and I'm desperate to get some help and advice.

Thanks,

Marius

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

It is usually not the alcohol that produces the allergic reaction to the wine or beer. The other ingredients in the alcohol, such as yeast, sulfur dioxide, and additives are often the culprits. They can cause hives,itching and swelling.

Secondly,alcohol consumption can cause changes in the liver. Advanced liver damage makes it difficult for your body to break down waste products (such as bilirubin) in your blood. Waste products in the bloodstream can also cause itching, nausea, fever, and body aches

Thirdly,alcohol intake in excess can cause alcoholic myopathy. The severe form of acute alcoholic myopathy is associated with the sudden onset of muscle pain, swelling, and weakness; a reddish tinge in the urine caused by myoglobin, a breakdown product of muscle excreted in the urine; and a rapid rise in muscle enzymes in the blood.

Avoidance of alcohol is the main treatment available.Other treatment options include antihistaminics,corticosteroids and immunotherapy.
Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how your child is doing or if you have any additional queries.