A 50-year-old woman in Canada visited emergency departments multiple times with symptoms of alcohol intoxication, despite not drinking. She was diagnosed with auto-brewery syndrome, where gut microorganisms ferment alcohol, causing intoxication without drinking. This condition is seen in those with gut fermentation from overgrowth of carbohydrate-fermenting fungi or bacteria in the gastrointestinal system. Factors like diet, antibiotic overuse, and genetic disposition can increase the risk. Symptoms include hangover-like effects, while delays in diagnosis can lead to social, legal, and medical consequences. Treatment involves a combination of drugs, diet, and supplements to reduce ethanol levels and restore gut balance.
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Rare Condition Causes Intoxication In 50-Year-Old Without Drinking Alcohol
