Advisory by Yip Suting, Guardian Pharmacist
What causes a hangover?
Excessive alcohol consumption promotes water loss from your body, strains the liver and causes low blood sugar.
What are its symptoms?
A hangover’s symptoms include thirst, dizziness, headache and nausea the day after heavy alcohol consumption.
How to prevent a hangover?
Avoid excessive alcohol intake. Men should drink no more than 2 standard drinks daily, and women, should have one standard drink a day. Eat something before drinking. Alternating your alcoholic beverages with water also helps to reduce dehydration. (One standard drink refers to a regular can of beer measuring 330ml, 175ml glass of wine or 35ml of spirits.)
How do I treat it?
The main treatment of hangover involves rehydrating the body. Take isotonic drinks to replenish water in your body. Sufficient rest is also important.
When should I see a doctor?
If you are suffering from severe vomiting or if your breathing is irregularly after a night of heavy drinking, seek medical attention immediately.