Hangover Help

Drinking too much alcohol at one time can make you feel like you have a new disease for which there is no cure. There are things you can do to pre-empt this show.

• Refrain from drinking on a an empty stomach.  This is a sure recipe for hangover hell. 
• Eat during the day instead of fasting for the party. 
• Stay well hydrated with water before and after the party.  Alcohol dehydrates.
• Drink responsibly, i.e. abstain from getting ataxic, speech impaired. Limit: 1-2 drinks/hr.
• Avoid mixing different types of drinks.

If a hangover does occur, try these remedies:

• Acetaminophen and ice pack for headache.
• Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours.
• Drink lots of water.
• Rest.

Drinking heavily and often are risk factors for hangover frequency, alcohol dependence, and multiple bad health problems (cirrhosis, dementia, delirium tremors, etc.). Drink wisely to reap the health benefits.

by J. L. Richardson, M.D., family medicine doctor and author of the award winning Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide.