Life
If you're anything like me, red wine is probably one of your favorite go-tos to wind down and get some much needed relaxation at the end of a long day. While some people turn to a beer or mixed drink, red wine is definitely the default for me (and many others), especially considering it's been rumored to have some health benefits (or at least that's what I like to tell myself). After a while, however, my body started reacting differently to it. It took me a while realize that there are signs you're actually allergic to red wine and pinpoint the culprit.
Wine-specific allergies, like stomach aches or wheezing, are a little different than general alcohol allergies. According to Healthline, red wine allergies are more likely to be caused by sulfites, histamine, or other compounds in wine. Red wine actually contains more of these occasionally-problematic pieces more than even white wine. Although the grape skins are responsible for some of wine's health benefits, according to the Mayo Clinic, they're pretty much overruled by the downfall of an allergic reaction. So, take note if you're experiencing any of these signs in correlation with red wine.
Although having some signs of allergies to red wine doesn't automatically mean you can't drink it anymore, it's sad to realize it's no longer the best, or most agreeable, option to partake in after a long day, day after day. Considering it's an admitted stereotypical favorite amongst many moms, it's frustrating to realize your body may not agree. The good news is: knowing some of the signs of an allergy to red wine can help you stop some pretty agitating symptoms for good. And don't panic if you think you can't end your day with some sort of boozy night cap — being allergic to red wine doesn't automatically mean you're allergic to alcohol in general.
1
Difficulty Breathing
I know this is a fairly common symptom in correlation with most types of allergic reactions, but it's an important one to keep in mind. According to Bustle, "wheezing, labored breathing, coughing, and other respiratory symptoms can be caused by the sulfites in wine (especially if you have asthma)." So if you often find yourself hacking up a lung before you head to bed after a glass of red wine, you might want to reconsider your late-night beverage option.
2
Skin Reaction
Getting super red and blotchy is the reaction I'm familiar with when I drink red wine. Although it's common for some people to reach in this way when they drink any type of alcohol, because of the histamine mentioned above, it's much more common with red wine. Everyday Health shared that if you notice flushing, itchiness, or skin issues in correlation with wine, it's a pretty big clue there's an allergy there.
3
Stomachaches
Healthline shared that if you notice abdominal pain, nausea, or diarrhea after drinking red wine, it's a sign you have an allergy to red wine. Healthline also noted that you can actually develop an alcohol allergy at any point in your life, and "sudden onset of symptoms may also be caused by a newly developed intolerance." So even if you've never had an issue before, it doesn't mean you're in the clear for the rest of your life, so don't rule an allergy out because you're in denial.
4
Headaches
Another reaction I began experiencing that was totally uncalled for were headaches and migraines after even only a glass or two of wine. According to the aforementioned Bustle article, the histamine contained in wine and histamine in your body can produce headaches. So, unfortunately, if you feel like you were ran over by a bus every morning after drinking red wine, it's a sign you should probably consider avoiding it, unless you're willing to power through a killer hangover after each tasting. Luckily, you don't have to skip red wine altogether. There are low-histamine wines available that your body might be able to tolerate better.
If you notice you're experiencing these symptoms after drinking red wine, you're probably wondering what to do next. As with anything, if symptoms are severe, it's a good idea to rule out the possible cause (in this case, red wine), and bring it up with your doctor.
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