Peer-review started: December 27, 2022
First decision: April 13, 2023
Revised: April 13, 2023
Accepted: May 6, 2023
Article in press: May 6, 2023
Published online: May 31, 2023
The literature is mixed about the occurrence of alcohol intolerance among patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Surveys that asked respondents with ME/CFS whether they experienced alcohol in
To overcome this methodologic problem, participants in the current study were asked whether they have avoided alcohol in the past 6 mo, and if they had, how severe their alcohol intolerance would be if they were to drink alcohol.
The instrument used was a validated scale called the DePaul symptom question
Using specially designed questions to properly identify those with alcohol intolerance, those who experienced alcohol intolerance vs those who did not experience alcohol intolerance experienced more frequent/severe symptoms and domains. In addition, using a multiple regression analysis, the orthostatic intolerance symptom domain was related to alcohol intolerance.
The findings from the current study indicated that those with ME/CFS are more likely to experience alcohol intolerance. In addition, those with this symptom have more overall symptoms than those without alcohol intolerance.
Core Tip: The findings from the current study indicated that those with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome are more likely to experience alcohol intolerance.