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Why Do Hangovers Happen? An Easy Explanation

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Dr Chris Mug

Sep 9, 2024

Person slumped over a wooden table with their head down, face hidden, and an empty wine bottle lying next to them. The scene is dimly lit, with a tipped-over glass and faint wine stains, creating a mood of exhaustion and disorientation

Alcohol makes you feel sick, tired, and foggy the next day

When you drink alcohol, your body tries to process it, but drinking too much can overwhelm your system. Your liver can't keep up, so bad substances build up in your body, making you feel sick. That's why you might wake up with a pounding headache, feel like throwing up, or be completely drained of energy.

Also, alcohol makes you go to the bathroom more, which dehydrates you and makes you feel even worse.


Alcohol doesn't just affect your body—it messes with your mind too. The next day, you might find it hard to think straight or focus on simple tasks. It can also make you feel like you've got the flu, with aches and pains all over, because your body is reacting to the alcohol. Plus, drinking can lower your blood sugar, leaving you feeling weak, shaky, and cranky.


Some people get hangovers more easily than others because of their genetics. But the best way to avoid feeling terrible the next day is to drink less alcohol. Drinking water and having some food can help a bit, but there's no surefire cure. Understanding why hangovers happen can help you make better choices when you're out having a good time.

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