How to treat alcohol allergy
Nov 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, treatment methods for alcohol allergy mainly include immediately stopping alcohol consumption to prevent further damage, basic care to relieve symptoms, antihistamine medication, corticosteroid therapy, and traditional Chinese medicine for improvement. Additionally, patients should follow medical advice strictly during treatment and clearly identify their specific allergens. In case of emergencies such as chest tightness or decreased blood pressure, immediate medical attention is required.
Generally, treatment methods for alcohol allergy mainly include immediate abstinence to prevent further harm, basic care to alleviate symptoms, antihistamine medication, corticosteroid therapy, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for improvement. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Immediate Abstinence to Prevent Further Harm
Alcohol and its metabolite acetaldehyde are key triggers of allergic reactions. Patients must immediately stop drinking and avoid foods or medications containing alcohol. Drinking plenty of warm water helps promote rapid excretion of alcohol through urine, reducing its accumulation in the body and blocking the progression of allergic reactions at the source.
2. Basic Care to Alleviate Symptoms
Avoid scratching when experiencing skin itching to prevent skin damage and secondary infection; cool compresses with a damp towel can help relieve discomfort. Keep indoor air circulating, wear loose and breathable clothing, maintain a light and easily digestible diet, and avoid spicy foods that may aggravate mucosal irritation, thereby helping the body return to a stable state.
3. Antihistamine Medication
Antihistamines are commonly used to relieve allergic symptoms by blocking histamine from binding to receptors. Under medical guidance, patients may take medications such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets, or loratadine capsules to improve symptoms.
4. Corticosteroid Therapy
For patients with severe symptoms such as laryngeal edema or difficulty breathing, timely use of corticosteroids is necessary to control inflammation. Commonly used drugs include methylprednisolone tablets and dexamethasone injection, which can rapidly suppress excessive immune responses and prevent disease progression.
5. Traditional Chinese Medicine for Regulation and Improvement
According to TCM, alcohol allergy is often related to internal damp-heat and spleen-stomach imbalance. Treatment focuses on clearing heat, eliminating dampness, strengthening the spleen, and harmonizing the stomach. Under medical guidance, patients may use herbal remedies such as Huoxiang Zhengqi Water or Shenling Baizhu Pills. Acupuncture at points like Zusanli (ST36) and Quchi (LI11) can also help regulate bodily functions and reduce discomfort.
In addition, during treatment, patients should strictly follow medical advice regarding medication and identify their specific allergens. In case of emergencies such as chest tightness or low blood pressure, immediate medical attention is required. Individuals with a history of allergies should completely avoid alcohol to prevent future allergic reactions.
