-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
digestive system
hangover
diagnoses
definition and etiology
definition:
Lay term referring to the metabolic sequelae of excessive alcohol consumption.
etiology:
Hangovers are associated mainly with an acute episode of alcohol overuse, normally experienced the morning after an evening bout, but occasionally experienced a few hours after daytime intoxication. Physiologically, the hangover may be associated with dehydration, metabolic irregularities, liver compromise or the effects of the many congeners present as constituents of drinks. It is most likely to be a synergistic phenomenon.
signs and symptoms
signs and symptoms:
headache
irritability
dry mouth, thirst
malaise, sluggishness, fatigue
muscle aches
slight dizziness
mental depression
anorexia
nausea
tremor (more severe cases)
lab findings:
serum alcohol: cimetidine (Tagamet) inhibits gastric alcohol dehydrogenase, interfering with alcohol breakdown, and substantially increasing serum alcohol levels (DiPadova, et al., JAMA 1992; 267: 83-86)
course and prognosis
The course is usually benign; the disorder is typically self-limiting within hours. Proper hydration is essential, but other treatment is generally considered unnecessary, though it may be beneficial. There are innumerable folk remedies to "cure a hangover". The best treatment is prevention.
Hepatic decompensation may take place after extreme intoxication, causing alcoholic hepatitis.
differential diagnosis
The history is usually diagnostic. Rule out other conditions, like infections, if the presenting symptoms are especially severe or persistent.
footnotes