Cures for Vomiting Caused By Hangovers

Vomiting due to over-consumption of alcohol may be a regular topic for comic one-liners. But to the sufferer who feels she may die and fears she won't, some plan for relief may be necessary to focus on in order to get through the painful morning-after. While most home remedies have no real efficacy according to Mayo Clinic staff, there are some things you can do.

What It Is

Technically called veisalgia, a hangover caused by ingesting alcohol may leave the drinker with dry mouth, dizziness, nausea, drowsiness and involuntary vomiting. Since alcohol dehydrates the body, the loss of more liquid in vomiting can further exacerbate the symptoms. At the same time, alcohol still in the system is being rejected by vomiting and can be part of the "cure," however unpleasant.

Time After Time

As most regular binge drinkers know, "this (vomiting phase) too shall pass." Time is the one cure-all medical and alternative cure advocates agree on for hangovers. At the same time, as epitomized by euphemisms like "getting smashed" or "wasted," it isn't news that getting drunk to the point of a vomiting hangover isn't good for you.

Prevention

Prevention, other than avoiding alcohol and instead volunteering to be the designated driver, can come in "before, during and after" drinking phases. Before drinking, have something to eat and non-alcoholic beverages to drink in order to dilute the effects of the alcohol. During drinking, space out drinks to one per hour with snacks and non-alcoholic drinks in between. After drinking and before going to bed, drink plenty of water or other clear liquids to help counteract the effects of the alcohol.

Hydrate

Clear liquids will help move the alcohol out of the body. Sports drinks with electrolytes as well as plain old water can help the process and dilute some of the effects. However, it takes time for the alcohol effect to leave. Avoid coffee and caffeinated drinks because they act as a diuretic, further dehydrate your system and give a false sense of alertness.