How Hangover What to Expect
A hangover is the set of symptoms that occur after a person has consumed too much alcohol. These symptoms typically peak few hours after a person stops drinking and can last for up to 24 hours.
Common symptoms of a hangover include:
* Headache
* fatigue
* nausea
* vomiting
* muscle pain
* thirst
* sensitivity to light and noise.
* diarrhea
* stomach pain
* constipation
* dark urine
* difficulty concentrating
* irritability
What causes a hangover?
The exact mechanism that causes hangovers is not fully understood but it is thought to be caused. by combination of factors including
- Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic which means that it causes, your body to produce more urine. This can lead to dehydration and the loss of electrolytes which are important for maintaining fluid balance and other bodily functions. Dehydration can also contribute to headaches and fatigue.
- Alcohol:s. effects on blood vessels: Alcohol causes blood vessels to dilate which can lead to headaches and flushing of the skin.
- Acetaldehyde buildup: Acetaldehyde is a toxic substance produced by the breakdown of alcohol. It is thought to contribute to the symptoms of headache nausea and vomiting
- Sleep disruption: Alcohol can also interfere with sleep by blocking the production of REM (rapid eye movement sleep). This can lead to fatigue and difficulty concentrating the next day.
How to prevent hangovers?
There is no surefire way to prevent hangovers but several tips can help you reduce the risk of experiencing one:
* Pace yourself: Drink slowly and give your body time to metabolize the alcohol you are consuming.
* Drink plenty of water: Alcohol is a diuretic and can lead to dehydration, so drinking plenty of water can help to keep your electrolyte balance in check.
* Avoid sugary drinks: Sugar can worsen headache and nausea.
* Eat a healthy meal before you drink. This helps slow the absorption of alcohol and can help reduce symptoms.
* Take an over-the-counter pain reliever before you go to bed.
* Get enough sleep.
* Avoid mixing alcohol with other substances, such as caffeine or drugs.
What to do if you have a hangover
If you do end up with a hangover, there are a few things you can do to relieve your symptoms:
* Rest: The best thing you can do is take a nap. Even if it,s for a few hours. The hangover symptoms will be over when you wake up.
* Drink more fluids: Water will help flush the toxins from your body and rehydrate you.
* Eat a healthy breakfast: Eating a healthy breakfast can help to improve your symptoms.
* Take an over-the-counter pain reliever: If you have a headache or muscle pain, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or aspirin
* Avoid caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can worsen your symptoms.
If your hangover symptoms are severe or do not improve after 24 hours, you should see a doctor.
