Why does the face turn black or purple after drinking alcohol?

Generally, facial darkening or purpling after drinking alcohol may be caused by factors such as alcohol-induced vasoconstriction, stimulation by alcohol metabolites, alcoholic liver disease, congenital heart disease, or pulmonary embolism. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific causes are analyzed below:

1. Alcohol-induced Vasoconstriction

After entering the body, alcohol stimulates peripheral blood vessel constriction, leading to poor facial circulation and blood congestion, resulting in a dark or purplish complexion. Immediately stop drinking, drink plenty of warm water to promote alcohol metabolism, apply warm compresses to the face to improve circulation, and avoid further alcohol consumption.

2. Stimulation by Alcohol Metabolites

Alcohol is metabolized into acetaldehyde in the body, which can irritate skin blood vessels and disrupt normal blood flow, causing abnormal skin coloration. After stopping alcohol intake, increase consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C to accelerate acetaldehyde breakdown. Drinking honey water may also help alleviate symptoms.

3. Alcoholic Liver Disease

Long-term alcohol consumption damages liver cells, impairing liver function and leading to abnormal bilirubin metabolism. Elevated blood bilirubin levels cause dull, dark, or purplish skin discoloration, often accompanied by fatigue and loss of appetite. Medications such as polyene phosphatidylcholine capsules, silybin capsules, or diammonium glycyrrhizinate enteric-coated capsules may be used under medical guidance. Complete abstinence from alcohol and a light diet are essential.

4. Congenital Heart Disease

Abnormal heart structure leads to abnormal blood shunting. Alcohol increases cardiac workload, reducing blood oxygen saturation and causing cyanosis (bluish or purplish discoloration) due to hypoxia, possibly accompanied by chest tightness and palpitations. Medications such as metoprolol tartrate tablets, aspirin enteric-coated tablets, or digoxin tablets may be prescribed. Surgical intervention, such as atrial septal defect repair, may be required in severe cases.

5. Pulmonary Embolism

Alcohol consumption may trigger dislodgement of deep vein thrombosis in the lower limbs, leading to pulmonary embolism. Impaired gas exchange in the lungs results in systemic hypoxia, manifesting as cyanotic or darkened facial appearance, along with sudden chest pain and shortness of breath. Immediate medical attention is necessary. Treatment may include urokinase injection, warfarin sodium tablets, or rivaroxaban tablets under medical supervision. In some cases, pulmonary thrombectomy may be required.

In daily life, limit alcohol intake and avoid drinking on an empty stomach or excessive consumption. Regular health check-ups—especially for the heart, liver, and lungs—are recommended. Individuals with pre-existing conditions should strictly follow medical advice for disease management and seek prompt medical care if any abnormalities occur.