Can you have an allergic reaction to alcohol just by smelling it?

Written by Li Xiao Lin
Emergency Department
Updated on January 26, 2025
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People with alcohol allergies might also experience allergic reactions just from the smell of alcohol, which is related to individual physical constitutions. Generally, alcohol allergies occur after contact with alcohol or after consuming it. However, individuals with poor health and an allergic constitution might experience allergic reactions when exposed to the smell of alcohol, such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue. In such cases, it is advisable to immediately leave the environment where the alcohol smell is present and rest in a place with good air circulation and drink more water. If the symptoms do not improve, it is necessary to seek further medical treatment at a hospital. Regularly drinking more water and exercising appropriately to strengthen the physique is recommended, and if necessary, visiting a hospital to check for allergens might be needed.

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