Do you find yourself reacting badly to alcohol and experiencing uncomfortable symptoms after just a few sips? If so, you might be experiencing something called ‘Asian Flush’.
This genetic condition is also known by the names:
- Asian Glow
- Alcohol Flush
- Asian Flush Response
- Asian Flush Syndrome
- Asian Flush Reaction
So, What is Asian Flush?
Have you ever experienced a negative and uncomfortable reaction to alcohol, right at the start of what's to be a great night? That is what Asian Flush loves to do. Unlike a normal hangover that makes you feel terrible the morning after, Asian flush hits you in reverse and gives you some unpleasant symptoms as soon as you start to drink.
So, what's going on inside your body? Well, it all comes down to your body's inability to properly metabolize alcohol. When you start to drink your body starts to work breaking down the alcohol into a chemical called acetaldehyde, which is a toxic by-product of alcohol.
In an ideal world, acetaldehyde gets properly metabolized and can leave your body, But this is not what happens to people with Asian flush. This nasty toxin gets stuck in the bloodstream and builds up due to the inability to metabolize it, which results in the uncomfortable symptoms you may experience.
One thing to understand is you don't have to be asian to experience these symptoms, you just have to have a deficiency in a certain enzyme called (ALDH2).
Asian Flush Symptoms To Look Out For
When it comes to the physical symptoms of this condition, they make themselves pretty well known when you start drinking. Here is what to look out for:
Flush Skin - One of the main symptoms is getting a flushed red face, neck, and chest. This is a very obvious and telltale sign of Asian flush.
Increased Heat - Do you often feel your body temperature rise, You might also start to sweat like you're in a sauna. This is another common alcohol-induced symptom.
Stuffy Nose - You may often find your nose congested or stuff, this adds another layer of discomfort on a fun night.
Headaches - Splitting headaches or migraine can also crash the part leaving you to have to sit out on the fun.
Bloodshot Eyes - Itchy or bloodshot eyes can also appear after a few drinks of alcohol.
So if you find yourself getting all or a few of these symptoms after drinking, there is a high possibility that you may have Asian flush.
Is It an Alcohol Allergy?
When you start to feel the above symptoms it's easy to jump to conclusions and assume that you're just allergic to alcohol. Whilst you may feel your symptoms resemble that of an allergic reaction, having a true alcohol allergy, whilst not entirely unheard of, is a pretty rare occurrence. What you most likely have is an alcohol intolerance.
Combatting Asian Flush
So, you don't want to give alcohol up forever? Fear not, there are a few things you can do to reduce the effects alcohol has on your body:
Hydration - While it's not groundbreaking advice, keeping hydrated through the night can help to lessen the alcohol flush. Drinking water between alcoholic drinks can be a great way to dilute the alcohol in your liver, which gives the liver an easier time breaking down the acetaldehyde.
Know The Triggers - Certain alcoholic drinks, like red wine, can increase the alcohol flush reaction. The best bet is to drink clear spirits and avoid the darker ones.
Asian Flush Patches - Our unique flush patches, infused with natural vitamins and antioxidants, can alleviate your symptoms by assisting in the rapid breakdown of acetaldehyde. Simply apply the patches before drinking and enjoy your night!
Summary Of How To Know If I Have Asian Flush
If you are struggling with Asian Flush it doesn't mean you have to say goodbye to social events or enjoy a drink with friends. Understanding Asian flush as a whole and learning how to combat and reduce the symptoms is key, you can take steps to help reduce the flush and enjoy your nights out.
While Asian Flush can be pretty uncomfortable, it also shows how unique we all are as humans, rather than viewing it as a hindrance, try to embrace it as part of you.
The availability of solutions like hydration, avoidance of trigger beverages, and effective products such as our Flush Off patches, provide hope for those affected. These offer ways to manage symptoms and reclaim control over the social events that involve alcohol.