Hangovers are a common experience that many people experience after consuming too much alcohol. Hangover symptoms can vary from person to person but often include headache, nausea, fatigue, and dehydration. While there is no surefire cure for a hangover, there are several alternative treatments that can help alleviate its symptoms. Remember, even when there is no hangovers, consuming alcohol is damaging to your health. Read our effects of alcohol post.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 hangover symptoms and their medical and alternative treatments what you can prepare at home:
- Headache
A pounding headache is a classic symptom of a hangover. The intense pain can make it difficult to concentrate or even perform simple tasks. You may feel sensitive to light and sound, making it challenging to function normally. To manage this symptom, it is essential to stay hydrated, rest, and take over-the-counter pain relievers.
Treatment: Taking a sip of a caffeinated drink can provide relief for migraine pain in the early stages. Caffeine, when consumed in moderation, can also enhance the pain-relieving properties of acetaminophen (Tylenol, etc.) and aspirin. However, it’s important to exercise caution since consuming excessive amounts of caffeine on a regular basis can result in headaches due to withdrawal. Additionally, drinking caffeine too late in the day may impact sleep, which can worsen the headache.
Alternatively, applying a cold compress to the forehead or temples can also provide relief. If none of these home remedies work for you, take painkillers such as ibuprofen or aspirin to alleviate headaches.
- Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of a hangover. You may feel queasy or nauseous, making it challenging to eat or drink anything. Vomiting may provide temporary relief, but it can lead to dehydration and further discomfort. It is important to drink plenty of water and consume bland foods such as crackers or toast to settle your stomach.
Treatment: If you’re experiencing nausea and vomiting, consuming small meals, instead of a large one, can aid in calming your stomach. Additionally, ginger tea or taking ginger supplements along with Vitamin B6 may provide relief for these symptoms. If you’re experiencing nausea and vomiting, one way to ease these symptoms is to slice a lemon or scratch its peel to release its essential oils into the air. When you’re not at home, carrying a vial of lemon essential oil can be a practical alternative.
- Fatigue and Weakness
Fatigue and weakness are common hangover symptoms that can make you feel exhausted and drained. You may feel lethargic and unable to perform even simple tasks. It is crucial to rest and allow your body to recover from the effects of alcohol. A warm bath or shower may also help to relax your muscles and promote restful sleep.
Treatment: Getting plenty of rest is important to recover from a hangover. Taking a nap or relaxing in a quiet, dark room can help to alleviate fatigue. In addition, you can:
- Hydrate by drinking a glass of water.
- Boost your energy by getting some sunshine.
- Step outside to breathe in some fresh air.
- Rejuvenate yourself by splashing your face with cold water.
- Refresh your senses by smelling some peppermint.
- Listen to uplifting music while resting to lift your mood and energy.
- Energize yourself with a booster drink made from cruciferous vegetables, beets, and carrots. Sweeten it with raw unfiltered honey. You need a powder juice to prepare it.
- Dizziness and Vertigo
Dizziness and vertigo are common symptoms of hangovers. You may feel lightheaded or dizzy, making it challenging to stand or walk normally. To manage this symptom, it is essential to stay hydrated and avoid sudden movements. Resting in a quiet and dark room may also help to reduce dizziness and promote relaxation.
Treatment: You can prepare and drink the juice I mentioned above. In addition, do these:
- Lie down until the dizziness subsides, and then stand up gradually.
- Move slowly and cautiously to prevent aggravating the dizziness.
- Get adequate rest to allow your body to recover.
- Consume plenty of fluids, especially water, to stay hydrated.
- Refrain from consuming coffee, cigarettes, alcohol, and drugs as they may worsen the dizziness.
- Sensitivity to Light and Sound
Sensitivity to light and sound is a common hangover symptom that can make you feel irritable and anxious. Loud noises and bright lights may worsen your symptoms, making it challenging to focus or perform tasks.
Treatment: To manage Sensitivity to Light and Sound caused by hangover, it is crucial to rest in a quiet and dark room and avoid stimuli that can worsen your sensitivity. This type of sensitivity is often associated with hangover. In addition to stay in a quiet and dark room, you may wear sunglasses or earplugs to get some relief.
- Muscle Aches and Pain
Muscle aches and pain are common hangover symptoms that can make you feel sore and uncomfortable. You may experience muscle cramps or stiffness, making it challenging to move or perform activities. To manage this symptom, it is essential to stay hydrated, rest, and take over-the-counter pain relievers.
Treatment: Over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen can help to reduce muscle aches. Light stretching or gentle massage can also help to relieve tension in the muscles. If you want to go natural, try these seven remedies:
- Raw onions: Loaded with vitamins and minerals, raw onions can be a potent pain reliever.
- CBD: By interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, CBD can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Apple cider vinegar (ACV): ACV is an affordable and easy-to-find remedy that can help alleviate muscle pain.
- Beet juice: Studies suggest that drinking beetroot juice may have pain-reducing effects.
- Magnesium supplement: Taking magnesium supplements may help with muscle cramps, sleep problems, and migraines.
- Olive oil: Massaging extra-virgin olive oil into sore muscles can be a great way to ease pain and discomfort.
- Tart cherry juice: Drinking cherry juice twice a day can help reduce muscle pain, according to numerous studies.
- Anxiety and Irritability
Anxiety and irritability are common hangover symptoms that can make you feel on edge and agitated. You may feel nervous or worried, making it challenging to relax or enjoy activities. To manage this symptom, it is important to rest, practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation, and avoid stimuli that can worsen your anxiety.
Treatment: Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation can help to reduce anxiety and irritability. In order to reduce anxiety, incorporating physical activity, maintaining a healthy diet, practicing regular sleep habits, and engaging in relaxation exercises can all be beneficial. Joining a support group may also provide assistance. To effectively manage symptoms, it’s advisable to avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine.
There are various herbs and herbal supplements that may aid in alleviating anxiety symptoms, assisting in relaxation and promoting a sense of calmness. Some of the more widely recognized varieties are:
- Lavender
- Lemon balm
- Chamomile
- Passionflower.
- Dehydration
Dehydration is a common hangover symptom that can lead to further health complications. You may feel thirsty or have a dry mouth, making it challenging to consume enough fluids. It is crucial to drink plenty of water and electrolyte-rich fluids such as sports drinks to rehydrate your body and prevent further discomfort.
Treatment: The most common cause of a hangover is dehydration. Drinking plenty of water, sports drinks or coconut water can help to rehydrate the body.
- Increased Heart Rate
Increased heart rate is a common hangover symptom that can make you feel on edge and anxious. You may feel your heart pounding or racing, making it challenging to relax or focus. To manage this symptom, it is crucial to rest, stay hydrated, and avoid caffeine or other stimulants that can worsen your heart rate.
Treatment: Drinking plenty of water and getting plenty of rest can help to reduce an increased heart rate. Avoiding caffeine and other stimulants can also help to regulate the heart rate. In severe cases, medical attention may be necessary. Moreover, it is essential to:
- Incorporate regular exercise into your routine.
- Ensure you get enough sleep each night.
- Refrain from using illegal drugs.
- Reduce sodium intake; instead, use Himalayan salt.
- Take daily fish oil supplement.
- Reduce stress levels to the best of your ability.
- Get regular exposure to sunshine or consume a vitamin D supplement.
- Avoid stimulants such as caffeine, nicotine, some cold medicines, and energy drinks, which may cause your heart to beat irregularly or too quickly.
- Minimize the consumption of refined or added sugar as it has been linked to various health concerns and chronic diseases, including cognitive decline.
- Limit the intake of refined carbohydrates like cakes, cereal, cookies, white rice, and white bread, which may be harmful to your memory.
- Poor Concentration and Memory
Poor concentration and memory are common hangover symptoms that can make it challenging to perform simple tasks or remember important details. You may feel forgetful or unable to focus, making it challenging to work or study. To manage this symptom, it is important to rest and avoid any stimuli that can.
Treatment: Taking a break from stressful mental activities and getting plenty of water and rest can help to improve concentration and memory. Alternatively, brain games or puzzles can help to stimulate the mind. Stay away from smoking marijuana and/or cigarettes. Consider taking nootropic supplements such as:
- Adaptogen herbs like ginseng and rhodiola
- Medicinal mushrooms such as Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps
- Amino acids like L-carnitine
- Creatine
- DHA/Fish oil
- B vitamins, particularly B12
- Matcha or Green tea extract
- Ginkgo biloba.
While there is no magic cure for hangover symptoms, there are many natural remedies that can help alleviate them. From staying hydrated to consuming certain foods and supplements, there are many things you can do to help your body recover from a night of drinking. By incorporating these alternative treatments into your routine, you can ensure that you’re taking the best possible care of your body and reducing your risk of experiencing the negative effects of alcohol. The best option is to stop drinking (Please read Alcohol withdrawal symptoms) Remember to always drink in moderation and to seek medical attention if you experience severe symptoms.
