Which department should you visit for alcohol allergy?

Alcohol allergy is an immune response triggered by alcohol or other components in alcoholic beverages. The appropriate medical department for consultation depends on the specific symptoms and may primarily include dermatology, emergency medicine, allergy (immunology), gastroenterology, and respiratory medicine. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Dermatology: If allergic symptoms are mainly skin-related, such as itching, redness, hives, or skin swelling, dermatology should be the first choice. Doctors in this department can visually assess the extent of skin lesions and prescribe topical anti-allergy ointments or oral medications to quickly relieve discomfort.

2. Emergency Department: Immediate visit to the emergency department is required if severe allergic reactions occur, such as difficulty breathing, laryngeal edema, decreased blood pressure, or confusion. The emergency department is equipped for urgent resuscitation and can promptly control life-threatening symptoms through oxygen therapy, epinephrine injection, and other interventions.

3. Allergy Department: This specialty focuses on allergic diseases and is suitable for patients seeking to identify specific allergens and understand the underlying mechanisms. Allergen testing can determine whether the reaction is caused by alcohol itself or by additives in alcoholic drinks, providing precise guidance for future risk avoidance.

4. Gastroenterology: If the primary symptoms involve the digestive tract—such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or bloating—gastroenterology is recommended. This department can evaluate potential gastrointestinal mucosal damage and use medication to regulate gastrointestinal function and alleviate digestive discomfort.

5. Respiratory Medicine: When allergic reactions affect the respiratory system, causing symptoms like nasal congestion, runny nose, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or wheezing, consultation with respiratory medicine is necessary. Lung function tests and other assessments can help determine the extent of airway involvement and prevent complications such as bronchitis or asthma.

When seeking medical care, it is important to clearly inform the doctor about the amount of alcohol consumed, the timing of symptom onset, and any history of allergies to facilitate rapid diagnosis. In daily life, individuals should strictly avoid alcohol and foods containing alcohol, and carry anti-allergy medication at all times to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.