Is it advisable to run after drinking alcohol?
May 19, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Haiming
Introduction
Running is not recommended after drinking alcohol, as it poses a higher risk of danger. Alcohol significantly affects the cardiovascular system. Initially, patients enter an excited state characterized by vasoconstriction and elevated blood pressure; later, vasodilation occurs, leading to a drop in blood pressure. Running during the hypertensive phase further increases blood pressure, raising the risk of conditions such as coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and intracerebral hemorrhage.
In daily life, many people feel inclined to go for a run after drinking alcohol, concerned that it may adversely affect their health. Understanding the associated medical conditions is essential for effective prevention and treatment. So, is it safe to run after drinking?
Is it safe to run after drinking alcohol?
Running after alcohol consumption is not recommended, as it significantly increases the risk of adverse events. Alcohol exerts substantial effects on the cardiovascular system. Initially, alcohol induces an excitatory phase characterized by vasoconstriction and elevated blood pressure. Later, as alcohol metabolism progresses, vasodilation occurs, leading to a drop in blood pressure. Running during the hypertensive phase further elevates blood pressure, increasing the risk of coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and intracerebral hemorrhage. Conversely, running during the hypotensive phase may cause exaggerated blood pressure fluctuations, potentially resulting in cerebral hypoperfusion.
After drinking, individuals should pay particular attention to alcohol’s irritating effect on the gastric mucosa. During this time, they should avoid foods that further irritate the gastric lining and instead opt for bland, carbohydrate-rich meals. Strong coffee, strong tea, and spicy foods may exacerbate gastric mucosal injury. Additionally, due to potential interactions between alcohol and antibiotics—which can alter mental status—antibiotics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be avoided. Some NSAIDs may worsen gastric mucosal damage, leading to acute erosive gastritis or even gastrointestinal bleeding.
In daily life, avoid spicy and irritating foods, drink plenty of water to promote metabolic turnover, and engage in appropriate outdoor physical activity to enhance immunity. We hope this information proves helpful!
