Does wine make you cough? For some individuals, this experience is quite common. This article will explore the various potential causes, from specific components within the wine itself to other bodily reactions, providing detailed insights into this phenomenon. Understanding these factors can help clarify why wine consumption sometimes leads to a cough.
Components in Wine That Can Cause Coughing
Wine contains several naturally occurring and added substances that can irritate the respiratory system, potentially leading to a cough. Sulfites, often used as preservatives, are one such component. These compounds help prevent spoilage and oxidation in wine, and while naturally present, they are also frequently added during winemaking. Some individuals are sensitive to sulfites, experiencing respiratory symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness, particularly those with asthma.
Another group of compounds, histamines, can also trigger coughs in sensitive individuals. Histamines are chemicals produced during fermentation and are found in many foods and beverages, including wine. Red wines generally contain higher levels of histamines than white wines. When the body cannot effectively break down histamines, or if an individual is particularly sensitive, symptoms resembling allergic reactions, such as coughing and wheezing, can occur.
Tannins, polyphenolic compounds derived from grape skins, seeds, and stems, contribute to the dry, astringent sensation in the mouth associated with red wines. While not a direct irritant in the same way as sulfites or histamines, their astringent quality might cause a drying or scratchy sensation in the throat, which can then trigger a cough reflex. Acidity is another factor, as wine’s acidic nature can directly irritate the throat and esophagus, potentially inducing a cough. Additionally, some individuals might react to residual yeast or proteins from the winemaking process, which can act as allergens and contribute to respiratory symptoms.
Other Factors Contributing to Wine-Related Cough
Beyond the intrinsic components of wine, several external factors related to its consumption or an individual’s health can contribute to coughing. Acid reflux (GERD) is a common cause. Wine, being acidic, can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, which can irritate the throat and lead to a persistent cough. White wine, in particular, has been shown to induce prolonged reflux episodes.
Alcohol can irritate the delicate mucous membranes lining the throat and airways. It can lead to dryness and inflammation, prompting a cough reflex. Furthermore, alcohol can increase mucus production in the airways, which the body then attempts to clear by coughing. This irritant effect is independent of other wine components.
Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma, are often more susceptible to wine-induced coughing. Wine can act as a trigger, even if these individuals do not have a specific sensitivity to its components like sulfites or histamines. Surveys of asthmatics indicate that over 40% report allergic or allergic-like symptoms, including coughing, after consuming alcoholic beverages, with wine being the most common trigger. Drinking too quickly or swallowing difficulties can also cause wine to “go down the wrong pipe,” leading to immediate, reflexive coughing as the body tries to clear the airway.
Strategies to Reduce Wine-Induced Coughing
Choosing wines specifically labeled as lower in sulfites, such as organic or natural wines, might be beneficial, as these generally contain fewer added preservatives. White wines, sparkling wines, and rosé wines typically have lower histamine levels compared to red wines, making them a potentially better choice for those sensitive to histamines. Some red varietals like Pinot Noir are also known for lower tannin content.
Drinking water alongside wine helps keep the throat moist and dilutes irritants, reducing dryness and irritation. Pacing wine consumption and limiting overall intake can also significantly reduce exposure to irritants and the general effects of alcohol, which may lessen the cough response. Avoiding other acidic or reflux-triggering foods and beverages, especially when consuming wine, can further help mitigate symptoms of acid reflux.
For individuals who suspect histamine sensitivity, over-the-counter antihistamines might offer some relief, though consulting a healthcare professional before use is advisable. Simple soothing measures like throat lozenges or warm beverages can also provide temporary comfort for an irritated throat.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If the cough is severe, persistent, or significantly impacts daily activities or sleep quality, professional medical advice should be sought. A cough that lingers despite reducing wine intake or trying home remedies warrants attention.
Other concerning symptoms accompanying a wine-induced cough also indicate a need for medical evaluation. These include shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, or symptoms suggestive of a more serious allergic reaction like facial swelling or hives. Unexplained weight loss in conjunction with a chronic cough should always be investigated by a doctor. A healthcare provider can help diagnose or manage underlying conditions such as GERD, asthma, or specific intolerances that might be exacerbated by wine, ensuring appropriate treatment and guidance.