Doctors Warn: Facial Flushing After Alcohol Consumption Signals Stroke Risk

Doctors warn that individuals who experience facial flushing after alcohol consumption and continue drinking may be at higher risk of stroke, with research indicating men drinking three beer cans daily could develop stroke approximately 7.5 years earlier. The study, conducted by Dr. Song Yue-Feng from the Tri-Service General Hospital's Neurology Department, examined 930 first-time stroke patients (598 men, 332 women). The research focused on alcohol intolerance related to the ALDH2 enzyme genetic disorder. Findings showed that men with alcohol intolerance who drink heavily develop strokes at an average age of 56.1 years, compared to 63.6 years for non-heavy drinkers. Dr. Song explained that acetaldehyde accumulation can cause symptoms like facial flushing, heart palpitations, headaches, and nausea, potentially damaging blood vessel linings and increasing stroke risks. The research defined 'heavy drinking' as consuming three 350cc beer cans or three glasses of red wine daily. However, Dr. Song emphasized that even small amounts can be harmful for those with alcohol intolerance, especially for East Asian populations with specific genetic alcohol metabolism differences. The study, published in Alcohol: Clinical & Experimental Research, recommends that men experiencing facial flushing after drinking should avoid alcohol to effectively reduce stroke and alcohol-related cancer risks.