Overview
- Medical consensus holds there is no reliable cure, so prevention through moderation and hydration remains the best strategy.
- Alcohol’s diuretic effect strips fluids and electrolytes, which underlies common symptoms like headache, dizziness and fatigue.
- Current advice prioritizes electrolyte drinks or over-the-counter tablets taken before bed and then in small sips on waking, with potassium-rich foods as alternatives.
- Coffee and so-called hair of the dog are discouraged because caffeine worsens dehydration and more alcohol only delays symptoms.
- For symptom relief, rest and protect sleep by stopping drinking earlier, use ibuprofen for headaches, and avoid acetaminophen because of liver risks.