Signs of a Hangover

Otherwise known as vasalgia, a hangover usually has specific symptoms caused by drinking alcohol excessively. The body is dehydrated causing hormonal changes and inflammatory effects. Some hangover signs are more common, while others occur only in a small number of people.

Headache

• A headache is the most common sign of a hang-over, due to dehydration of the brain and stress on the liver. When the liver is under stress, it is difficult for it to produce glucose, and brain cells need glucose to function properly, causing a headache. In addition, since alcohol is considered a diuretic, which causes the body to rid itself of water. So the more alcohol you drink, the more water the body needs to dilute it. If you don't drink enough water while partaking in alcohol-drinking, the body's organs, including the brain, will be deprived of water. This causes a headache feeling.

Nausea and Vomiting

• Nausea and vomiting are also common signs of a hangover. Individuals can feel sick after a night of excessive drinking and the feeling can come and go, depending on how much alcohol was ingested. The symptoms can occur multiple times throughout the day. Drinking cold water can help alleviate nausea. While vomiting can be beneficial for the body because it rids the body of toxins, it is unpleasant for the person. Drink water after vomiting to rehydrate the body.

Fatigue

• Alcohol alters the level of neurotransmitters in the brain, which commonly results in disrupted sleep. When excessive amounts of alcohol are ingested, the body cannot enter the Rapid Eye Movement stage of sleep for full rest. This results in a feeling of drowsiness or sleepiness the following day in those who are hungover. This can also, in turn, contribute to other hangover symptoms, such as irritability.

Other Signs

• Other signs of a hangover may include body aches and dehydration leading to irritability and dizziness. Some may experience a change in bowel movements, such as diarrhea. Loss of appetite, stomach cramps, difficulty concentrating, sensitivity to light and noise, and general malaise may also be signs of a hangover.

Prevention of a Hangover

• A hangover can be avoided by not drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. It is necessary to rehydrate the body, so drinking fluids during a night of drinking is ideal. Eating and taking pain relievers such as ibuprofen are other ways to prevent a hangover.