Hangover remedies

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Hangover Remedies is a term used to describe various methods and treatments used to alleviate the symptoms of a hangover. A hangover is a group of unpleasant signs and symptoms that can develop after drinking too much alcohol. The etymology of the term "hangover" is believed to have originated from the physical act of being hung over something, as a metaphor for the physical and mental discomfort one experiences after excessive drinking.

Symptoms of a Hangover[edit | edit source]

Hangover symptoms typically begin when your blood alcohol content drops significantly and is at or near zero. They're usually in full effect the morning after a night of heavy drinking. Depending on what and how much you drank, you may notice:

  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Excessive thirst and dry mouth
  • Headaches and muscle aches
  • Nausea, vomiting or stomach pain
  • Poor or decreased sleep
  • Increased sensitivity to light and sound
  • Dizziness or a sense of the room spinning
  • Shakiness
  • Decreased ability to concentrate
  • Mood disturbances, such as depression, anxiety and irritability
  • Rapid heartbeat

Common Hangover Remedies[edit | edit source]

There are numerous hangover remedies that people use to try and alleviate the symptoms of a hangover. Some of the most common include:

  • Drinking water or rehydration drinks: Alcohol can lead to dehydration, which can cause some hangover symptoms. Drinking water or rehydration drinks can help to rehydrate the body and alleviate these symptoms.
  • Eating a good breakfast: Alcohol can lower your blood sugar levels, which can lead to feelings of fatigue and mood disturbances. Eating a good breakfast can help to restore your blood sugar levels and alleviate these symptoms.
  • Taking over-the-counter medication: Some over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, can help to alleviate the symptoms of a hangover, such as headaches and muscle aches.
  • Getting plenty of sleep: Alcohol can interfere with your sleep, which can contribute to the symptoms of a hangover. Getting plenty of sleep can help to alleviate these symptoms.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

The best way to prevent a hangover is to avoid alcohol or to drink in moderation. It's also important to drink water between alcoholic drinks to prevent dehydration and to eat before drinking to slow the absorption of alcohol.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Hangover remedies Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD