Understanding Hangovers: Symptoms and Causes

A hangover is described as a combination of psychological and physiological symptoms that occur after alcohol consumption, often when blood alcohol levels are at zero. Common symptoms include headaches, nausea, vomiting, low mood, and impaired reaction times. The hangover experience is not solely due to dehydration; several factors contribute, including the toxic byproduct acetaldehyde that results from the body metabolizing alcohol and inflammation caused in the digestive system. These physiological responses to alcohol also affect neurotransmitters, leading to feelings of anxiety and mood changes the following day.