What causes body itching the day after drinking alcohol?

In general, experiencing itchy skin the day after drinking alcohol may be caused by vasodilation, alcohol allergy, eczema, pruritus, or neurodermatitis. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Vasodilation

Alcohol can cause blood vessels to dilate, increasing blood flow to the skin surface. This may lead some individuals to experience skin itching, facial redness, and a burning sensation after drinking. This condition is usually temporary and resolves gradually on its own.

2. Alcohol Allergy

Alcohol allergy refers to an allergic reaction to alcohol or its metabolites. The allergic response may result from sensitivity to certain components in alcohol or from inappropriate activation of the immune system triggered by alcohol. Skin itching is a common symptom of alcohol allergy. Other possible symptoms include skin erythema, urticaria, shortness of breath, headache, and nausea. Symptoms may be relieved with medications such as promethazine hydrochloride tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or ketotifen fumarate capsules, as directed by a physician.

3. Eczema

Eczema is a skin disorder that may be related to abnormal immune responses. Alcohol consumption can trigger eczema flare-ups, with symptoms including skin erythema, blisters, dryness, and itching. It is advisable to follow medical guidance and use topical medications such as compound betamethasone and camphor cream, compound sulfur cream, or clobetasol propionate cream to manage symptoms.

4. Pruritus

Pruritus is a condition characterized solely by skin itching without primary skin lesions. Patients may experience sensations of burning, stinging, or the feeling of ants crawling on the skin. Treatment may include topical agents such as compound dexamethasone cream, vitamin E cream, or acetate prednisolone cream, as recommended by a doctor.

5. Neurodermatitis

Neurodermatitis is a skin allergic reaction caused by nervous system dysfunction, possibly related to the neurological effects of alcohol. Patients may experience itching, burning, or pain in the skin. Symptoms may worsen during emotional fluctuations or increased stress. Topical treatments such as halometasone cream, desonide cream, or hydrocortisone cream may be used under medical supervision to relieve discomfort.

In daily life, maintaining a light diet and moderate alcohol consumption is beneficial for overall health.