Late-night weekend parties often result in hangovers the next morning, which can significantly disrupt your entire workday or Sunday if they become severe. The hours-long headaches, pain, fatigue, weakness, vomiting, and more can be debilitating. 

Individuals who frequently enjoy nightlife should educate themselves about the stages of hangovers and when the symptoms may indicate the need for emergency care. In this blog, we will explore the various stages of a hangover, identify symptoms, and discuss how to effectively manage and treat them.

What is a Hangover?

A hangover is the unpleasant set of symptoms that follow excessive alcohol consumption, including headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dehydration, typically experienced the morning after drinking.

Hangovers are caused by alcohol’s toxic effects on the body, dehydration, and the body’s efforts to metabolize and eliminate alcohol. The severity of a hangover can vary from person to person and depends on factors such as the amount of alcohol consumed and individual tolerance levels. 

What are the Symptoms of a Hangover?

Hangover symptoms typically emerge as your blood alcohol content approaches zero, usually becoming most pronounced the morning following a night of heavy drinking.

Depending on the type and quantity of alcohol consumed, you may experience:

• Extreme fatigue and weakness
• Thirst and a dry mouth
• Headaches and muscle soreness
• Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort
• Disrupted or inadequate sleep
• Increased sensitivity to light and sound
• Dizziness or a sensation of room spinning
• Trembling and perspiration
• Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly
• Mood fluctuations, including depression, anxiety, and irritability
• Rapid heart rate

Severe Hangover Symptoms 

• Intense headache
• Severe nausea and vomiting
• Profound dehydration
• Extreme fatigue
• Heightened sensitivity to light and sound
• General discomfort and distress

When the Symptoms of Hangover Become Dangerous

More severe symptoms resulting from excessive alcohol consumption could indicate alcohol poisoning, a life-threatening emergency. Alcohol poisoning occurs when large quantities of alcohol are consumed rapidly, leading to critical effects on breathing, heart rate, body temperature, and the gag reflex. In some cases, it can even progress to a coma and be fatal.

If someone who has been drinking displays the following symptoms, it is crucial to call emergency medical care.

• Confusion
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Slow breathing (less than eight breaths per minute)
• Irregular breathing (a gap of more than 10 seconds between breaths)
• Moist or sweaty skin
• Skin appears blue or gray due to low oxygen levels, which may be harder to detect depending on the skin tone
• Slow heart rate
• Low body temperature
• Difficulty staying conscious
• Unconsciousness with an inability to be awakened

How IV Therapy Works

IV therapy, or intravenous therapy, delivers fluids, vitamins, minerals, and medications directly into a person’s bloodstream through a needle and tubing. By bypassing the digestive system, IV therapy allows for rapid absorption of these substances, providing quick relief from dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, and certain medical conditions. 

It is commonly used to rehydrate individuals, boost nutrient levels, and administer medications that require immediate and precise delivery. IV therapy can be tailored to meet specific needs, making it a versatile and effective medical treatment.

IV for Hangover

IV therapy for hangover, can help with a hangover by providing rapid relief from the symptoms associated with excessive alcohol consumption. When you have a hangover, you are typically dehydrated, and your body has lost essential nutrients. IV therapy delivers fluids, electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals directly into your bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. This means your body can quickly rehydrate and replenish the nutrients it needs to recover. 

IV therapy can alleviate symptoms like headache, nausea, fatigue, and dehydration, helping you feel better faster compared to simply drinking water or taking oral medications. It provides a more efficient and immediate solution for hangover relief. However it is recommended to consult an expert provider before proceeding.

Conclusion

Hangovers are not a disease, but they can ruin your day and put you in bad medical conditions. It is necessary to learn about the symptoms and stages of hangover and when one needs to visit the doctor and possible rapid treatments. 

Dr Syra Hanif is providing IV therapy for hangovers to restore the energy and consciousness back in Manhattan, NYC. Book your appointment today.