What Does a Hangover Feel Like?

A hangover is a group of unpleasant physical and mental symptoms that occur after consuming too much alcohol. The severity of hangover symptoms may depend on the amount and type of alcohol consumed.

Common Hangover Symptoms

• Fatigue, weakness, and thirst Alcohol consumption can cause mild dehydration, leading to various hangover symptoms.
• Headache Hangover headaches are typically throbbing or pounding, accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light, and dizziness.
• Gastrointestinal distress Many individuals experience an upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea during a hangover.
• Muscle aches Muscle pain and stiffness are common hangover symptoms.
• Sleep problems Alcohol can disrupt sleep, resulting in fatigue the following day.
• Vertigo and sensitivity to light and sound Dizziness and lightheadedness, as well as increased sensitivity to light and sound, may occur.
• Decreased attention and concentration Focusing can be challenging after excessive alcohol consumption.
• Depression, anxiety, and irritability Mood changes, including feeling down, anxious, or irritable, may accompany a hangover.
• Tremor, sweating, and increased pulse and blood pressure Alcohol's effects on the body, such as dehydration and inflammation, can contribute to these symptoms.

Recap Headaches, thirst, sensitivity to light, irritability, and stomach upset are common hangover symptoms.

Severe Hangover Symptoms

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to acute alcohol poisoning, a life-threatening condition. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning may include:

• Confusion
• Difficulty remaining conscious or being awakened when unconscious
• Vomiting while unconscious
• Slow heart rate and bluish-colored skin
• Low body temperature and feeling cold to the touch
• Seizures
• Very slow or irregular breathing

If you observe any of these symptoms in someone who has been drinking, call 911 immediately. Stay with the person, turn them on their side to prevent choking on vomit, and perform CPR if they stop breathing.

Intensity and Duration of Hangover Symptoms

The severity and duration of hangover symptoms can vary among individuals and occasions. Factors contributing to this variation include:

• Age Younger people tend to experience more severe hangovers.
• Genetic factors Genetic makeup can influence how the body responds to and processes alcohol.
• Overall health Individuals with poorer general health tend to experience more severe hangover symptoms.
• Sex Women generally have a lower tolerance for alcohol and may experience worse hangovers than men.

Hangover symptoms usually begin within several hours after drinking and peak when blood alcohol concentration (BAC) returns to zero. Symptoms can last from a few hours to up to 24 hours.

When Hangover Symptoms Become a Problem

Frequent hangover symptoms or symptoms that interfere with daily life at school or work may indicate an alcohol use disorder. Continuing to drink despite negative consequences is a sign of alcohol use disorder.

Chronic, heavy alcohol use can lead to various health problems, such as digestive issues, cardiovascular disease, liver disease, weakened immunity, neurological issues, bone damage, and increased cancer risk.

Seeking Assistance If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use or addiction, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area. For additional mental health resources, refer to the National Helpline Database.