What exactly is a Hangover?

What exactly is a Hangover?

What Does a Hangover Feel Like?
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How Long Does a Hangover Last?

Duration of a hangover depends on the amount and type of alcohol consumed, drinking speed, hydration and food intake, sleep quality, genetics, sex, age, and overall health. Clinical reviews and consensus statements report that a typical alcohol hangover usually peaks when BAC returns to near zero and can last up to about 24 hours for many people, though in some cases symptoms may persist longer (some individuals report effects for 48–72 hours after heavy drinking). Expectable ranges therefore run from a few hours to one or more days depending on circumstances.

Quick facts & figures

  • Many studies show a large proportion of social drinkers experience hangovers after heavy drinking episodes; incidence estimates vary by population and drinking patterns (some surveys find >60% incidence after heavy drinking episodes, while general-population surveys report lower annual rates). Individual susceptibility varies widely.

  • Hangovers can negatively affect work performance, driving ability, mood and safety; some economic analyses estimate substantial productivity costs at a national level