A Brief Overview of Hangovers

After receiving his medical degree from the Universidad Central del Caribe in Puerto Rico, Adam Nadelson, MD, undertook medical training at Montefiore Medical Center in New York. Adam Nadelson, MD, now serves as chief executive officer of The IV Doc (theivdoc.com), a company providing in-home IV therapy. The IV Doc addresses a wide range of issues, including hangovers, food poisoning, and the flu, in the comfort and privacy of an individual’s home.

Contrary to popular belief, a hangover is not necessarily the result of excessive drinking. In fact, one or two drinks may be enough to trigger hangover symptoms, though the general rule is that the more alcohol you drink, the more likely you are to suffer a hangover. 

Hangover symptoms have multiple causes. Alcohol inhibits the bodies production of Anti-Diuretic Hormone (ADH normally helps you retain fluid). Because of the loss of ADH, your body produces urine at a more frequent rate, leading to dehydration. Alcohol not only triggers an inflammatory responses throughout the body but it also inhibits the resolution of the inflammation, resulting in memory and concentration issues, decrease absorption of food or water (when taken orally) through the gastrointestinal tract irritation, and its increase use (dose-escalated effects) can cause a higher risk of heart attacks, stroke or chronic high blood pressure. Too much alcohol prevents the body from entering a deep state of sleep, which can in turn create a collection of insomnia-related symptoms.

Hangovers typically leave on their own or are self-remitting, generally within 24 hours. However, a severe hangover may necessitate a visit to the doctor, or have from The I.V. Doc. Any person experiencing trouble breathing, chest pain, or seizures should immediately seek medical help.