Hangover
A hangover is typically the result of drinking too much alcohol, though some people experience symptoms after only a small amount. The cause is a combination of alcohol's dehydrating effects and adverse reactions to chemical compounds or additives in drinks — especially dark-colored beverages such as red wine, port, brandy, and sherry. Common symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, intense thirst, and disrupted sleep. Most people recover quickly with appropriate self-care measures.
If you know you've drunk too much, these steps can help minimize a hangover. Most symptoms clear within 24 hours.
- Rehydrate aggressively — Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids before bed and the next morning. Keep a glass of water by your bed and sip if you wake during the night. Fruit juices (which contain natural fructose) are especially helpful (see Natural Remedies). Avoid tea and coffee — they irritate the stomach and worsen dehydration.
- Eat something light — Even a banana helps boost low blood sugar levels. Toast, crackers, or a small bowl of soup can also help settle your stomach.
- Take an analgesic — Over-the-counter pain relievers can help prevent or relieve headache (see Drug Remedies).
- Use an antacid if needed — Antacids help reduce nausea and stomach discomfort (see Drug Remedies).
- Do not drink more alcohol — "Hair of the dog" only prolongs the hangover and delays recovery.
- Rest until you feel better — Give your body time to metabolize alcohol and restore balance.
- Do not drive — Alcohol remains in your bloodstream for hours; your reflexes and judgment may still be impaired the morning after drinking.
- You experience regular hangovers and are finding it difficult to reduce your alcohol intake.
- You feel the need to drink alcohol first thing in the morning to feel "normal."
- You have symptoms of alcohol withdrawal (shaking, confusion, rapid heartbeat) when you stop drinking.
- Hangover symptoms are severe or last longer than 24 hours.
Fructose is a natural sugar that helps the body metabolize alcohol more efficiently. Consuming fruit, fruit juices, or honey can speed up hangover recovery.
Analgesics (pain relievers) — Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve headache. Taking ibuprofen before sleeping may actually prevent some hangover symptoms (though it can worsen stomach irritation, so take with food).
Antacids — These work by neutralizing stomach acids that contribute to nausea, indigestion, and heartburn. Antacids come as soothing liquids, chewable tablets, or effervescent options. Chewing well before swallowing allows them to work faster and increases effectiveness.
Avoiding a hangover — If you plan to drink alcohol, these steps can reduce the likelihood and severity of hangover symptoms:
- Eat a balanced meal before you start drinking — food slows alcohol absorption.
- Alternate between alcoholic drinks and water or soft drinks (non-caffeinated).
- Choose lighter-colored alcoholic beverages (vodka, gin, white wine) which contain fewer congeners — compounds linked to severe hangovers.
- Drink slowly and set a limit before you go out.
🧠 Remember: The only guaranteed way to prevent a hangover is to drink within safe limits or avoid alcohol entirely. If hangovers are frequent, consider evaluating your drinking habits with a healthcare professional.