A Canadian woman in Toronto, Canada has been experiencing symptoms of drunkenness despite not consuming alcohol. This 50-year-old woman visited the emergency room multiple times due to excessive sleeping, slurred speech, and a smell of alcohol on her breath. Doctors discovered that the bacteria in her intestines were fermenting and causing her to become intoxicated, a condition known as autofermentation syndrome.
The woman visited the emergency room seven times in two years before being diagnosed with this rare syndrome. Her symptoms mimicked those of alcohol poisoning, even though she had stopped drinking alcohol for religious reasons. The woman’s chronic fatigue caused her to have trouble functioning in daily life, as she would often fall asleep unexpectedly and struggle to complete tasks.
The root cause of her symptoms was found in her medical history. This woman had a history of recurring urinary tract infections, which were treated with antibiotics. The strong doses of antibiotics likely disrupted the balance of bacteria in her intestines, allowing harmful fungi to colonize and ferment carbohydrates, producing alcohol. Autofermentation syndrome occurs when certain types of fungi and bacteria grow in the intestines and ferment carbohydrates from the individual’s diet.
Treatment for this syndrome involves antifungal medications and a diet low in carbohydrates to limit the sugar available for fermentation. Individuals with high blood sugar and a reduced ability to break down alcohol are more susceptible to autofermentation syndrome. This condition is extremely rare, with less than 100 documented cases worldwide since the late 1940s. Diagnosing this syndrome can be challenging, as symptoms often resemble those of alcohol intoxication, leading to misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment.
It is important for individuals with a history of recurring urinary tract infections or other medical conditions that disrupt gut health to be aware of autofermentation syndrome and its potential risks. Treating underlying medical issues promptly can help prevent the development of this rare but potentially dangerous condition.
In conclusion, autofermentation syndrome is an extremely rare but serious condition that can occur when certain types of fungi and bacteria grow in the intestines and ferment carbohydrates from an individual’s diet. Symptoms often resemble those of alcohol intoxication, making it difficult to diagnose without proper medical attention. It is important for individuals with underlying medical issues that disrupt gut health to seek prompt medical attention if they experience any signs or symptoms associated with this condition
