When an individual gets a red face after drinking alcohol, people will generally think of the syndrome called Asian flush. Also sometimes called alcohol flush reaction, what we are in fact colloquially referring to here is one of the many externally observable reactions to a collection of underlying genetic abnormalities that prevent the proper metabolism of alcohol. In this regard, it is actually a reaction to a condition, not a condition in and of itself.
Flushing Reaction
The reaction is a hyperemia induced erythema, typically associated with but not isolated to superficial capillaries in the facial region. More simply put, it is a redness of the skin caused by increased blood flow to near surface veins in the affected areas. This red facial flushing is the most noticeable of many symptoms and is caused by build up in the body of a substance called acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism.
Genetic Abnormality
The reason for this acetaldehyde build up can be attributed to genetic variations common in, but not exclusive to, Asian people. On the one hand, people with this genetic variation tend to metabolize alcohol faster and in turn produce more acetaldehyde in a shorter period of time. This is further complicated by another genetic deficiency in an enzyme that is normally responsible for breaking acetaldehyde down into a non-toxic substance. These two genetic factors contribute to the acetaldehyde build-up and are amongst the main, but not the only, causes of Asian flush syndrome.
Short-term Risks
Whilst symptoms can be uncomfortable for the drinker, the short term risks are minor and more likely associated with alcohol intoxication rather than anything to do with the condition itself. Moreover, given the discomfort typically experienced by drinkers who have this condition, it is much harder to get sufficiently intoxicated to the point where they are at risk from over intoxication. In this regard, Asian flush has been seen as a safeguard that prevents individuals from the various risks that face regular drinkers, such as alcoholism.
Importantly, this condition should be distinguished from other related conditions that pose significant short-term risks to the drinker, such as an allergy to alcohol.
Long-term Risks
In contrast to the minor short term risks, the long term risks are real and significant. Multiple governmental health bodies have flagged acetaldehyde as a known carcinogen and have publicly warned people with Asian flush of the health risks that arise as a result of continued alcohol consumption. In this regard, it is extremely important to be aware of these health risks, drink alcohol in moderation and follow appropriate safety measures to avoid prolonged acetaldehyde build up in your body.
Treatment
There is currently no treatment for the underlying genetic condition mentioned above. However, as discussed, Asian flush is a reaction to this condition and not a condition in itself. This reaction can be easily and effectively minimized with appropriate treatment.