You’ve been there, I’ve been there, and almost everyone else has been there. The morning after what was an incredible time quickly turns into hangover central. The little voice in your head was whispering about it the night before, but the thug Mr. Tequila promptly tied him to a chair in the corner. The result is feeling like you have been run over by a truck or have contracted some weird tropical disease. The remedies for this alcohol induced misery range from medical-based options to those closer to voodoo. Today, we will look at how to deal with the aftermath of a hangover.
Hangover – Dealing With the Aftermath
After a night of booze centered celebration, your body has to step up and process it. The result is an inflammatory response that provides us with the hangover. Your liver carries most of the burden, which actually creates a toxic substance called acetaldehyde. With that in your system, the body is in full misery mode. The manifestations include headaches, nausea, light sensitivity, and a range of other symptoms. The urge to kneel over a toilet is your body’s desire to purge the goo that is poisoning it.
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There are countless methods people use to try to head off a hangover. Some of the more classic are not drinking on an empty stomach, alternating a drink with a glass of water, and even over-the-counter miracle substances. One classic is drinking a sports drink and taking an OTC pain med right before bed. The only challenge to this is remembering to do it. While some work better than others, the fact is that you are still drinking too much alcohol.
Some Tips
While the best treatment for a hangover is prevention, the reality is that it’s going to happen. With that understanding, here are some little things that will help ease your suffering. First is water. Water helps rehydrate the body and supports detoxification. In this same category, consider getting some electrolytes into your system. This helps replenish critical minerals that help with hydration. While I am sure it is not on their promotional material, a drink like Hoist works well. It is a blend of carbohydrates, electrolytes, and fluids that closely match the body’s natural osmolality. Because of that, it absorbs rapidly, without the need for digestion, so you feel the difference.
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Food and Drugs
Get some healthy food into your body and avoid fast food. If you feel up to it, try to get some light exercise to get your heart pumping and the blood flowing. Lastly, you can always take some OTC medications like aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Make sure you take only the recommended dosage and read the label. Some medications do not mix with alcohol and can make matters worse. Things like acetaminophen with alcohol may result in liver damage, and excess use of aspirin may cause stomach tissue damage.
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Hangover – It’s Not the End
While there is no perfect solution, these suggestions can at least take the edge off and allow you to get off the couch. The best plan is always to have a plan. Know your limits and be willing to stop when you reach that mark. Beyond that, you will be back here again reading the same information.
