Strange Symptoms: Alcohol Intolerance Emerges
Age: 21, Height: 5’2", Weight: 97 lbs Medical Background: History of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), mitral valve prolapse, polycystic kidney disease (Mayo class 1A, eGFR 88), dysglycemia, and von Willebrand's disease. Current Medications: Cardizem as needed (last used a while ago) and a Mirena IUD. About four weeks ago, I discovered a swollen lymph node in my groin area. It was quite firm, didn't move much, and was not painful. I experienced no other symptoms, and there have been no recent vaccinations, STDs, or urinary tract infections. Two weeks prior, I visited my doctor, who suggested an ultrasound. The findings indicated a lymph node measuring 2.3 x 1.6 x 2.7 cm with signs of hypervascularity and a heterogeneous cortex but with a preserved fatty hilum. The radiologist indicated a likelihood of benign conditions while still advising correlation with possible malignancy due to the observed cortex and vascularity. I'm aware of the low cancer risk associated with this, so I'm not overly concerned, although I thought it might be useful information. I completed a short course of doxycycline antibiotics, but it had no effect. I've communicated this to my doctor, but I haven't received a response yet. Additionally, two weeks ago, I began to feel increasingly fatigued. Despite getting 8-12 hours of sleep and needing daytime naps, I still felt tired. Without naps, I find myself asleep by 8 PM. Additionally, I've been experiencing itchy skin, which I attribute to the recent winter weather since I've had flare-ups resembling eczema in the past, although this time I'm noticing it in some unusual areas, such as my chest, where I've never had issues before. I've been on a higher protein diet for several weeks as I’m hitting the gym occasionally, engaging in mild resistance exercises three times a week. Although I am not extremely active otherwise, my weight has dropped; I was 104 lbs a few weeks back. Concerning alcohol: Last night, I had just under two drinks. Typically, I can handle around four drinks without any issues. However, as I began my second drink, I experienced sudden discomfort and severe nausea. I felt excessively warm, flushed, and my heart raced. I had eaten normally throughout the day and stayed hydrated, drinking water continuously while enjoying my drinks. Once I returned home, I quickly fell asleep due to feeling nauseous and unwell. I had some leftover zofran from a prior kidney infection in October, but even that didn't alleviate my discomfort. At midnight, I awoke with severe stomach pain, alternating temperature sensations, excessive sweating, goosebumps, and PVCs. I struggled with dry heaving and felt dizzy every time I tried to move. I managed to get to the couch and slept for another few hours, only for the cycle to repeat. Once I fell asleep again, I felt somewhat improved afterward, though still weak and foggy. I took more electrolytes and stayed hydrated, managing to eat without issue thereafter. What’s concerning is that I normally can drink several drinks and feel fine. This reaction is entirely unprecedented for me. There were no changes in my diet, activities, or exposure to illness, and I don’t have Asian heritage, which can sometimes be associated with alcohol intolerance. A few weeks before this incident, I did have three drinks and felt a weird throbbing pain in my lymph node, but I attributed that to something unrelated. Could anyone shed light on why I might suddenly be unable to tolerate alcohol? What actions should I take moving forward? Should I bring up all these symptoms, or would it come off as overwhelming or unfocused? 🤔
Answers (1)
2/3/2026, 12:51:48 AM
OpenHealth AI
Your recent experience with alcohol intolerance, along with your other symptoms, could be signaling an important change in your body's response to certain substances or stressors. It’s excellent that you are keeping track of these changes and seeking clarity.
Key Points
- Sudden onset of alcohol intolerance can result from various factors, including changes in health status, medications, or stress.
- Your symptoms of fatigue, itchy skin, swollen lymph nodes, and previous episodes of PVCs suggest that your body may be experiencing some underlying issues.
- Keeping an open line of communication with your healthcare provider is essential to address all of your symptoms effectively without feeling overwhelmed.
Explanation
The sudden inability to tolerate alcohol, especially after multiple instances of being able to do so, raises several potential concerns. Alcohol intolerance can stem from:
- Dehydration: Even with good hydration, sometimes the body can be sensitive to alcohol if you are also feeling fatigued or unwell.
- Liver Function Alterations: Conditions affecting the liver or electrolyte imbalances can impact alcohol metabolism.
- Anxiety or Stress Reactions: Acute symptoms following alcohol consumption can also relate to anxiety or physical stress responses.
- Allergic Reactions or Sensitivities: Although less common, it's possible to develop acute sensitivities.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of any further alcohol intake and related symptoms. Note also any other instances of fatigue, skin changes, or lymph node sensations.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Continue prioritizing hydration. As your diet changes with increased protein, ensure you are still consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
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Management of Itchy Skin: Use gentle moisturizers or oatmeal baths to soothe the itch. If it continues, consider over-the-counter allergy medications or creams for eczema but consult your healthcare provider if symptoms persist.
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Follow-Up with Your Doctor: It’s important to discuss all the symptoms you've described. Prepare a concise list highlighting the most concerning symptoms (like alcohol intolerance, fatigue, etc.) and possible links to your lymph node issues. It’s okay to bring up multiple concerns in a visit; it can help provide a more comprehensive picture of your health.
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Urgent Attention: Should any symptoms worsen, especially related to heart sensations (like PVCs) or if you experience severe abdominal pain consistently, seek medical attention sooner rather than later.
Your health journey is important, so don't hesitate to express all your concerns, no matter how overwhelming they may seem. Taking proactive steps now can help clarify and improve your overall well-being.
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