Mind over brain matter: Tips to help a hangover from a neurology expert
Ah, summer. For many, it means long days and often, late nights. So, if someone had a moment to ask a neurologist how to wake up without a headache after consuming alcohol, what would they ask?
Well, we had the opportunity to probe Ada medical expert Andreas, who worked in Neurology in Hamburg and is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in epidemiology. We kept the questions light since the brain is already a hard working organ.
Unsurprisingly our expert opened with, “The most effective way to prevent a hangover is to avoid alcohol altogether. If you must, drink in moderation with plenty of gulps of water in between.”
Does smoking make the morning-after worse?
Short answer, yes. If you’re a smoker or a social smoker, you’ll likely experience a more severe hangover compared to your non-smoking counterparts. When inhaling tobacco, you’re essentially depriving your brain of oxygen and introducing bad chemicals and toxins into the system. Combine that with dehydration from consuming alcohol, then it’s no surprise the headache will be worse.
Is it safe to take a painkiller before going to bed?
While this preventative maneuver sounds like it came from the MacGyver School of Drinking, it’s better to hydrate and drink electrolytes before bed. Over-the-counter painkillers are meant to be taken when you already have a headache, so if you take it before you have one, the pain killing effects may wear off long before the alcohol has metabolized through your body. Always take care to take the recommended dosage of painkiller, as going above these amounts can be harmful.
Will a greasy breakfast help?
Eating something is always better, but you’re probably not feeling well due to lack of water and electrolytes. You’re better off with a fresh breakfast of fruits and veggies or a smoothie. You’ll need to reactivate your stomach as it’s taken a toll from the alcohol that’s been consumed.
Why does bright light hurt my head more?
You’re just experiencing increased photosensitivity after becoming intoxicated. Your brain is already sensitive from effects of alcohol or other substances, so you might feel pain because the layer protecting it is stimulated by an imbalance to the equilibrium.
Last question, do we only use 10% of our brains?
No. There is no mythical treasure of under-utilized neurons waiting to be activated.
In summary, if you would like to avoid hangovers and headaches in general, any medical expert will advise you to look to your lifestyle — keeping hydrated, sleeping well, and doing regular exercise. Of course, the easiest way to avoid a hangover is to drink in moderation.
The personal opinions of our writers are their own. All interviewees are trained medical experts but all information should be regarded as helpful suggestions and not a formal medical diagnosis or advice. Please drink responsibly.
Worldwide, over-consumption of alcohol kills about as many people as tobacco does. Consumption in the younger age can decrease your intellectual development and increase the possibility of getting addicted to other drugs. If you have a hangover, chances are you’ve drunk too much and it is a sign that you’ve drunk too much. For general information on alcohol abuse visit NHS: Alcohol support information.
