For some people special events, (such as the toasting involved in New Years celebrations) are followed the next day by hives, skin rashes, flushing and warmth of the skin, bronchospasms or shortness of breath. These symptoms can occur in people who are asthmatic or troubled with allergies. Rather than a “hangover” these individuals are reacting to the sulfur dioxide which is naturally produced in the production of wine and it’s various by products. it is worse in red wines than white. It has the same effects when allergic people eat foods in which it’s used as a preservative, such as baked goods, condiments, shellfish and canned foods such as tomatoes and fruit juices.
Histamine, generated by bacteria and yeast in alcohol, can also cause allergic reactions and result in a runny or stuffy nose, itchy and watery eyes and worsening asthma symptoms.
Beer can also cause allergic symptoms because of ingredients such as barley, corn, wheat and rye.
