How to Treat or Cure Hangover

A hangover treats itself with time, usually within 24 hours. The aim is comfort and safety while the body recovers.

What to do

1. Rest and sleep as much as you can.
2. Rehydrate with water and oral rehydration solution in small sips.
3. Eat light, bland food such as toast, rice, banana or soup when you can.
4. Treat headache carefully. Avoid paracetamol while alcohol is in the body. Ibuprofen should be used cautiously, with food, or avoided with stomach or kidney problems.
5. Do not drink more alcohol.
6. Do not drive or use machinery until fully recovered.

When it is not just a hangover

Call 112 or 102 for confusion, being unable to wake, slow breathing, seizures or repeated vomiting. See a doctor for severe pain, blood in vomit, yellow skin, or symptoms lasting more than 24 to 48 hours.

If hangovers are frequent

Regular hangovers can be a sign of heavy or risky drinking. A doctor can assess your liver, stomach and mental health, and offer support to cut down or stop. Stopping suddenly after heavy daily drinking can be dangerous and should be done under medical advice.

Ayurvedic care

Light cooling food, fluids and rest are traditional advice. These are comfort measures, not proven cures.

Key point

No quick cure exists. Beware of any product that says otherwise.

Before your appointment

Note how much and what you drank, over how long, and your symptoms. List any medicines or supplements taken, how often hangovers occur, and any past liver, stomach or heart problems. Be open with your doctor about alcohol use, since this helps them advise you safely.