What causes headaches immediately after drinking alcohol?

Oct 12, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
In general, headaches after drinking alcohol may be related to factors such as alcohol allergy, blood vessel spasm, or elevated adrenaline levels. If drinking triggers an allergic reaction, it can cause physical discomfort. After alcohol enters the body, it may lead to blood vessel spasms, reducing blood supply to the brain, and may also cause the body to secrete excessive amounts of adrenaline.

In general, headaches after drinking alcohol may be related to factors such as alcohol allergy, vascular spasm, or elevated adrenaline levels. Symptoms can be relieved through medication and lifestyle adjustments.

1. Alcohol allergy: If an individual is allergic to alcohol, consuming it may trigger an allergic reaction, leading to symptoms such as headache, nausea, and facial flushing. Drinking plenty of water can help promote alcohol metabolism. After the alcohol is metabolized, medications such as loratadine tablets or cetirizine hydrochloride tablets may be used under a doctor's guidance.

2. Vascular spasm: After alcohol enters the body, it may stimulate spasms or dilation of cerebral arteries, thereby reducing blood supply to the brain and causing symptoms like headache and dizziness. Under medical advice, medications such as flunarizine hydrochloride capsules or betahistine hydrochloride tablets may be used for treatment.

3. Elevated adrenaline: Amines in alcohol may stimulate the body to secrete excessive adrenaline, causing blood vessel constriction, increased blood pressure, and resulting in symptoms such as headache and dizziness. Drinking honey water may help promote alcohol metabolism and alleviate headache symptoms.