Signs and Symptoms That You May Be Allergic to Beer

(KTDY-FM) - It's no secret, people in Louisiana love to drink a cold beer on a hot summer day, but are you allergic to beer?

A few days ago, I was speaking with a friend, and he told me that he thinks he may be allergic to beer. While I was shocked to hear him say that, he isn't the first person to tell me that they are allergic to beer.

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As most of us do when we aren't informed on specific topics, I started to look up how someone may know they are allergic to beer, and here are the signs and symptoms.

According to Healthline.com, these are often prevalent after consuming beer

Signs You Are Allergic to Beer

Facial Flush
Hives
Digestive Issues
Respiratory Problems
Tightness in the Chest
Wheezing
Nausea
Vomiting
Hoarseness

Why Are People Allergic to Beer

Much like with anything else, those who are allergic to beer are affected by the ingredients in the beer. If you have an allergic reaction to beer, you are likely allergic to a particular ingredient, and they are as follows:

Yeast
Malted barley or other grains, such as wheat and sorghum
Hops
Assorted colorings, flavors, and preservatives

If you sense that you are allergic to beer, there are a few things you can do or try,

Try another brand of beer to see if you get the same reaction.
An over-the-counter antihistamine may also help with mild symptoms.
Get tested for allergies. Visit your doctor or go to an allergist. Ask to be tested for ingredients commonly found in beer.

Read More: Louisiana Food Myths Debunked

When Should You Stop Drinking Beer

According to a few medical sites that I visited, they suggest that you stop drinking beer if you have a severe allergic reaction to the beer.

If you notice that your tongue is swelling or if you have difficulty breathing after consuming beer, you should stop immediately. Next, schedule an appointment with your doctor and inform them about what you drank and whether you were taking any medications when the reaction flared up.