Hangovers

Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.

The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.

A hangover is a collection of physical and mental symptoms that occur after a person drinks too much alcohol. Hangovers can range from mild to severe and can last for several hours or even days. The symptoms of a hangover can include headache, nausea, fatigue, sensitivity to light and sound, dizziness, and dehydration. 

Causes and Risk Factors of Hangovers

Hangovers are caused by the consumption of too much alcohol. When a person drinks alcohol, it enters the bloodstream and affects the brain and other organs. Alcohol is a diuretic, which means that it causes the body to lose more fluids than it takes in, leading to dehydration. Alcohol also irritates the stomach lining, leading to nausea and vomiting. The liver metabolizes alcohol, and if a person drinks too much, the liver may not be able to keep up with the demand, leading to the buildup of toxins in the body.

Risk factors for hangovers include drinking too much alcohol, drinking on an empty stomach, drinking dark-colored drinks, such as red wine or whiskey, and drinking sugary drinks, such as cocktails or mixed drinks.

Symptoms of Hangovers

The symptoms of a hangover can vary from person to person and depend on the amount of alcohol consumed. Some common symptoms include:

Prevention of Hangovers

Treatment of Hangovers

There is no cure for a hangover, but there are some things you can do to alleviate the symptoms:

Oriental Medicine

In Oriental medicine, hangovers are considered a condition of excessive heat in the body. Acupuncture and acupressure can be used to reduce heat and restore balance to the body. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of energy or "qi." Acupressure involves applying pressure to these same points using the fingers or other tools.

Some acupressure points that may help alleviate hangover symptoms for example: LI4, applying pressure to this acupoint can help relieve headaches; LV3, applying pressure to this point can help alleviate nausea and vomiting; PC6, applying pressure to this point can help relieve nausea and vomiting, ect.

In addition to acupuncture and acupressure, some other Oriental medicine techniques that may be helpful for hangovers include herbal remedies and dietary changes. For example, some herbs, such as ginger and licorice, are believed to help alleviate hangover symptoms. Eating a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables, and low in fat and processed foods, may also help reduce the severity of hangover symptoms.

Conclusion

Hangovers are a common occurrence for many people who drink alcohol. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and can last for several hours or even days. The best way to prevent a hangover is to drink alcohol in moderation or not at all. However, if you do experience a hangover, there are some things you can do to alleviate the symptoms, such as drinking plenty of water, eating light, easy-to-digest foods, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, and getting plenty of rest.

Additionally, Oriental medicine techniques such as acupuncture, acupressure, and herbal remedies may also be helpful in reducing the severity of hangover symptoms. By taking steps to prevent hangovers and managing symptoms when they do occur, you can help ensure that you are able to enjoy alcohol responsibly and without experiencing negative consequences.

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