Can I have a medical check-up after drinking alcohol?
Mar 28, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Drinking alcohol is generally not recommended before a medical examination. After consuming alcohol, the body contains high levels of alcohol, which can interfere with accurate diagnosis and lead to misdiagnosis if it has not been fully metabolized. First, alcohol stimulates the nervous system, causing excitement, blood vessel constriction, and increased heart rate. Some patients may experience unstable blood pressure—either elevated or lowered—thus affecting normal clinical assessment.
Generally speaking, one should not have a medical examination after drinking alcohol. The specific analysis is as follows:
After consuming alcohol, the body contains a significant amount of alcohol, which may interfere with accurate assessment if it has not been fully metabolized, potentially leading to misdiagnosis.
First, alcohol can stimulate the nervous system, cause blood vessel constriction, increase heart rate, and lead to unstable blood pressure—such as hypertension or hypotension—thereby affecting normal clinical evaluation. Second, alcohol is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream, which may result in abnormal test values—for example, elevated bilirubin levels—and thus compromise diagnostic accuracy. Finally, alcohol is primarily metabolized by the liver; its presence can lead to inaccurate test results, such as increased levels of liver enzymes like transaminases.
In addition, alcohol is considered a spicy and irritating substance. Excessive drinking can negatively affect health. In daily life, alcohol consumption should be minimized. Before a medical examination, maintain a light diet, consume more fresh vegetables and fruits, ensure adequate sleep, and avoid excessive fatigue.
