Why your chest hurts when drinking alcohol
There are a few reasons why your chest might hurt when you drink alcohol. It could be that you have bumped or hit your chest, which can cause bruising or pain. It could also be that you’re suffering from heartburn, which is a common symptom of drinking too much alcohol.
Another possibility is that you have an allergy to alcohol. This is more common than you might think and can lead to a number of symptoms, including chest pain. If you think you might be allergic to alcohol, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
However, there is a possibility that you’re experiencing a condition called alcohol chest pain syndrome (ACPS). ACPS is a type of heart condition that’s caused by drinking too much alcohol.
Symptoms of alcohol chest pain syndrome (ACPS)
Symptoms of ACPS can vary from person to person, but they often include:
- Chest pain that gets worse when you drink alcohol
- Shortness of breath
- Heart palpitations
- An irregular heartbeat
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
If you experience any of these symptoms after drinking alcohol, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
What causes ACPS and how is it treated?
The exact cause of ACPS is unknown, but it’s thought to be related to the way alcohol affects the heart. Alcohol can cause the heart to beat faster and harder, which can lead to chest pain. ACPS is also more common in people who have a history of heart disease or high blood pressure.
There’s no cure for ACPS, but treatment can help relieve symptoms and prevent the condition from getting worse. Treatment options include:
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Avoiding triggers (such as drinking too much alcohol or drinking alcohol on an empty stomach)
- Taking medication to manage symptoms (such as painkillers, beta blockers, or ACE inhibitors)
- Getting counseling or therapy to help you change your drinking habits
- Undergoing surgery to correct a heart condition that may be contributing to ACPS
How can you prevent ACPS from happening?
The best way to prevent ACPS is to limit your alcohol consumption. If you do drink, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to avoid them.
For example, don’t drink on an empty stomach and don’t drink too much alcohol at once. If you’re worried about ACPS, talk to your doctor about your drinking habits and whether you should cut back.
Are there types of alcohol that are more likely to cause ACPS?
There’s no definitive answer, but some research suggests that certain types of alcohol may be more likely to cause ACPS. These include:
- Red wine
- Fortified wine (such as port or sherry)
- Brandy
- Liqueurs
What should you do if you experience chest pain after drinking alcohol?
If you have chest pain after drinking alcohol, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Chest pain can be a symptom of ACPS, but it can also be a symptom of other heart conditions. A doctor can help you determine the cause of your chest pain and recommend treatment.
Can ACPS be fatal if left untreated?
ACPS itself is not usually fatal, but it can lead to other serious health problems. For example, ACPS can cause an irregular heartbeat that can lead to heart failure. If you have ACPS, it’s important to get treatment to prevent complications.
Conclusion on Why Your Chests Might Hurt When Drinking Alcohol
If you’re experiencing chest pain after drinking alcohol, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Chest pain can be a symptom of ACPS, but it can also be a symptom of other heart conditions. A doctor can help you determine the cause of your chest pain and recommend treatment. ACPS itself is not usually fatal, but it can lead to other serious health problems. If you have ACPS, it’s important to get treatment to prevent complications.
