Tag: Hangover

When you drink a large amount of alcohol over a short period, like a night out on the town, you can feel its effects the next day. You might be experiencing a hangover, or you could be experiencing alcohol poisoning. Understanding the difference between alcohol poisoning vs. a hangover is important. In certain cases, alcohol poisoning requires immediate medical treatment. 

What Is a Hangover?

A hangover is a group of symptoms that occurs after consuming an excessive amount of alcohol, and its effects are wearing off. Depending on the amount drunk, some people could still be considered to be legally intoxicated, even the next day, while experiencing a hangover. 

Common Hangover Symptoms

Some of the more common symptoms of hangovers include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dehydration
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Sensitivity to sound and light
• Body aches and pains
• Fatigue
• Difficulties concentrating and focusing
• A sensation like the room is spinning
• Balance and coordination difficulties

Why Do Hangovers Happen?

Hangovers occur as a result of excessive drinking and from the effects it has on the body, such as:

• Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic and causes the body to flush out fluids more quickly, leading to dehydration. 
• Electrolyte imbalance: As a result of dehydration, the electrolytes become imbalanced and can cause hangover symptoms.
• Blood sugar levels drop: As the body processes alcohol, it causes blood sugar levels to drop, which can cause dizziness and other hangover symptoms.
• Consuming dark liquors: Dark liquors contain congeners, which can enhance the effects and symptoms of hangovers. 
• Build-up of acetaldehyde: As the body processes alcohol, it releases acetaldehyde, which is toxic and causes headaches, nausea, and vomiting. 
• Stomach irritation: Alcohol can irritate the stomach and contribute to nausea and vomiting. 
• Inflammation: Some people experience an inflammatory response when drinking, which triggers specific hangover symptoms. 
• Withdrawal: Alcohol forces the release of different neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, dopamine, and GABA. As alcohol levels drop, the brain tries to restore balance, causing withdrawal and related hangover symptoms. 
• Sleep disturbances: While someone can initially pass out from drinking excessively, as alcohol wears off, it can make it difficult to remain asleep, which can cause fatigue and a general sense of weakness. 

What Is Alcohol Poisoning?

Alcohol poisoning occurs when someone drinks an excessive amount of alcohol in a short period. It often happens when someone binge drinks regularly, and there is more alcohol in the bloodstream than the body can process and handle. 

The BAC (blood alcohol content) continues to rise because the liver cannot process and remove alcohol from the body fast enough. As the BAC levels increase, the excess alcohol causes the depressant effects to become more pronounced. Consequently, if BAC levels increase significantly while the person continues to drink, it causes alcohol poisoning, which is life-threatening and requires immediate medical treatment. 

Common Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning

At BAC levels between 0.02% and 0.15%, the range of symptoms includes:

• Lowered inhibitions
• Feeling relaxed and euphoric
• Impaired judgement
• Slurred speech
• Coordination impairments
• Reduced reaction times
• Slowed thinking
• Mood changes
• Nausea
• Vomiting

These symptoms can cause a hangover later. If drinking continues and BAC levels reach 0.30%, common symptoms will include:

• Confusion
• Blackouts
• Vomiting
• Drowsiness
• Difficulties remaining conscious
• Seizures

At BAC levels between 0.30% and 0.40% or higher, alcohol poisoning is occurring. People will usually lose consciousness at this point, and could vomit while passed out. The depressant effects of alcohol are heightened as well and could cause respiratory distress and failure. The skin can appear blue or pale and will feel cold as the body temperature drops. Some people will also slip into a coma. 

Key Differences Between Alcohol Poisoning vs. Hangover

It might not appear that there are many differences between alcohol poisoning vs. a hangover because they share similar symptoms. However, some key differences are:

• Hangovers generally occur several hours after a night of heavy drinking and can last as long as 24 hours. 
• Alcohol poisoning usually occurs in binge drinkers, heavy drinkers, and people with alcohol use disorder (AUD).
• Alcohol poisoning can start with an hour or two of heavy drinking as BAC levels reach 0.30% or higher.
• As a result, It can take up to three days, sometimes longer, to fully recover from alcohol poisoning.
• Most people do not realize they have alcohol poisoning initially and believe it is a hangover. 
• Alcohol poisoning requires immediate medical care, while people generally recover from hangovers with rest and hydration at home. 

How to Prevent Hangovers and Alcohol Poisoning

The most effective way to prevent hangovers and alcohol poisoning is not to drink alcohol. Moreover, if someone does choose to drink alcohol, then they should:

• First, Drink in moderation
• Next, only consume one drink every one to two hours
• Drink water in between drinks to remain hydrated
• Moreover, eat before drinking and while drinking
• Importantly, Never mix alcohol with medications or other substances
• Avoid binge drinking and drinking games
• Avoid mixing and switching between different types of alcoholic beverages
• Drink mocktails to avoid peer pressure

Find Help for Alcohol Addiction in Los Angeles Today

If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol use and addiction, Sanctuary Treatment Center in Los Angeles is here to help. To begin with, we provide a comfortable and caring environment. In addition, we offer comprehensive, personalized care plans that are tailored to your unique needs. Therefore, Contact us today to take the first steps to a brighter, alcohol-free future. 

Published: 4/30/2025