This disease makes you appear drunk without drinking: Know more

Can you imagine getting falsely accused of drunk driving after the breath analyser ‘says’ that you are drunk even if you haven’t had a drop of alcohol? Auto Brewery Syndrome (ABS) aka fermentation syndrome is a rare condition which causes your body to exhibit signs of alcohol consumption even if you haven’t consumed alcohol. The body of those suffering from ABS produces ethanol in the stomach and intestines. Some bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract ferment or break down carbohydrates and sugary food into alcohol. Recently, a Belgian man who suffers from ABS was caught by the police for drunk driving. The police became suspicious when they learned that the man worked at a brewery. However, in three medical tests that were conducted independently, it was found that the man hadn’t consumed alcohol and was suffering from Auto Brewery Syndrome.

What causes ABS?
Experts say that this condition could affect any gender. Experts say that those who have diabetes, obesity and suffer from autoimmune diseases or stomach-related problems are more likely to get diagnosed with ABS. In adults, the imbalance in the growth of saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast in the small intestine may lead to ABS. It must be noted that ABS patients may display symptoms of alcohol intoxication like slurred speech, dizziness and skin rashes. Besides, they may even suffer from dysentery, gas and other gastric problems.

How to cure it?
Interestingly, there is no specific cure for it, though it can be managed with dietary modifications. ABS patients should avoid simple carbohydrates and refined food items. Doctors may prescribe probiotics and anti-fungal medicines. Antibiotics that can fight some yeasts and bacteria too are used to treat the symptoms. A handful of lifestyle modifications including stress and weight management through regular exercise are also prescribed to handle ABS.