What should I do if I feel nauseous and want to vomit the day after drinking too much?

Aug 22, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Haiming
Introduction
Feeling nauseous and having an urge to vomit the day after excessive alcohol consumption can be alleviated by drinking warm water, honey water, or warm milk, which help protect the gastric mucosa and relieve nausea. Nausea and vomiting occurring the day after heavy drinking may result from acute gastric mucosal lesions or acute gastritis caused by alcohol-induced irritation of the gastric mucosa. Alternatively, they may stem from severe water and electrolyte imbalances—such as profound hyponatremia—triggered by excessive water intake.

  In daily life, many people experience nausea and vomiting—symptoms that may result from consuming contaminated food or hypoglycemia. When this occurs, patients’ appetite is significantly affected, and their bodies may sustain certain degrees of harm; thus, effective interventions must be identified. So, what should one do if feeling nauseous and vomiting the day after excessive alcohol consumption?

  What to Do If You Feel Nauseous and Vomit the Day After Heavy Drinking

  If you feel nauseous and vomit the day after heavy drinking, consider drinking warm water, honey water, or warm milk to help protect the gastric mucosa and alleviate nausea. Such symptoms may indicate acute gastric mucosal lesions or acute gastritis triggered by alcohol-induced irritation of the gastric mucosa. Alternatively, they could stem from severe water and electrolyte imbalances—such as profound hyponatremia—caused by excessive fluid intake or dehydration. It is essential to assess electrolyte levels and perform other relevant diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause. Once an electrolyte imbalance is confirmed, correction should be undertaken under medical supervision. Concurrently, standard treatment may include acid-suppressing agents, gastric mucosal protectants, and antiemetics.

  Nausea and the urge to vomit the morning after excessive alcohol intake primarily arise from alcohol-induced irritation of the gastric mucosa, leading to gastric discomfort. In such cases, drinking a cup of warm water or honey water can help dilute residual alcohol in the stomach, thereby providing some symptomatic relief. Additionally, consuming small amounts of acidic fruits—such as oranges or tangerines—may also help alleviate nausea and dry heaving. If necessary, oral administration of gastric mucosal protectants—such as sucralfate—can further relieve symptoms.

  After drinking alcohol, it is advisable to consume easily digestible foods and engage in light physical activity, which can accelerate metabolism and support recovery. We hope this information proves helpful.