What Causes Facial Flushing After Drinking Alcohol?
Hi - whenever I have a drink of alcohol, my face turns bright red. Could be as little as a 1/2 glass of wine, or a beer. If i have something stronger, say a margarita, it happens quicker. I and am otherwise 100% healthy - what could cause this? Do I have an allergy to alcohol? This has happened a few times in the past few years, so I just generally skip having a drink. Not the same as a hot flash - just my cheeks flare up red.
It's a common genetic variation in not being able to get rid of the breakdown product of alcohol (acetaldehyde). Antabuse works because it prevents the getting rid of acetaldehyde and the build up of it causes these symptoms. It is pretty common (most Asians) to not be able to get rid of Acetaldehyde so easily. There are drugs (like antabuse) that can block the getting rid of acetaldehyde and cause a short term problem with alcohol that clears up after stopping the drug.
I find this answer helpful
You found this answer helpful
Note: In case of any other concern or query related to prevention, evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, or the recovery of persons with the any type of addiction or substance use, follow up with our Addiction Medicine Specialist. Click here to book a consultation now.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
We use cookies in order to offer you most relevant experience and using this website you acknowledge that you have already read and understood our
Privacy Policy
What Causes Facial Flushing After Drinking Alcohol?
It s a common genetic variation in not being able to get rid of the breakdown product of alcohol (acetaldehyde). Antabuse works because it prevents the getting rid of acetaldehyde and the build up of it causes these symptoms. It is pretty common (most Asians) to not be able to get rid of Acetaldehyde so easily. There are drugs (like antabuse) that can block the getting rid of acetaldehyde and cause a short term problem with alcohol that clears up after stopping the drug.