Hangover in the morning

**Encyclopaedia entry: Morning hangover** **Definition:** A morning hangover is an unpleasant condition that occurs after excessive alcohol consumption. It is characterised by a range of physical and psychological symptoms that typically occur a few hours after drinking, when the blood alcohol level drops again. **Causes:** The hangover is caused by several factors, including: - **Dehydration:** Alcohol has a diuretic effect and leads to increased fluid loss. - **Electrolyte imbalance:** The loss of fluids and electrolytes can lead to headaches and fatigue. - **Stomach irritation:** Alcohol increases stomach acid production and can irritate the stomach lining. - **Inflammatory reactions:** Alcohol can promote inflammatory processes in the body. - **Sleep disturbance:** Alcohol can impair the quality of sleep, leading to tiredness and fatigue. **Symptoms:** - Headaches - Nausea and vomiting - Fatigue and weakness - Thirst and dry mouth - Dizziness and tremors - Difficulty concentrating - Irritability and depressive moods **Treatment:** There is no specific cure for a hangover, but some measures can alleviate the symptoms: - **Hydration:** Drink plenty of water to compensate for dehydration. - **Replenish electrolytes:** Sports drinks or broth can help replace electrolytes. - **Pain relievers:** Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help relieve headaches (aspirin should be avoided as it can further irritate the stomach). - **Adequate sleep:** Rest and recovery help the body recover. **Prevention:** - **Moderation:** Limit alcohol consumption. - **Eating before and during drinking:** A meal can slow down the of alcohol. - **Drinking water:** Drink water between alcoholic drinks to maintain hydration. - **Avoid dark spirits:** These contain more congeners which can make hangovers worse. **Things to know:** - The severity of a hangover can vary from person to person and depends on factors such as the amount and type of alcohol consumed, individual sensitivity and general health. - The term 'hangover' is derived from the medical term 'catarrh', which originally referred to an inflammation of the mucous membranes. **Research:** Research into hangovers is investigating the exact biological mechanisms that lead to the symptoms, as well as potential treatments and prevention strategies.