Hiccups are the involuntary contraction of the diaphragm. Alcohol is one reason we get hiccups, but not the sole cause. Learn some tips for avoiding and treating hiccups in our latest blog.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Hiccup! Hiccup! Hiccup! Ugh — it’s happening again. You just got home after a night out, and somehow you have hiccups again. All you can think is how hard it’s going to be to sleep if these hiccups don’t go away — and you’ll do anything to stop them.
Most of us have experienced hiccups at some point in our lives, and they can be hard to get rid of! Keep reading to learn about why we get hiccups, how we can stop them, why alcohol famously causes hiccups, and how to prevent another attack of drinking-related hiccups in the future.
Hiccups are an involuntary spasm of the diaphragm. The diaphragm is an organ below the lungs which separates the base of the chest from the abdomen and is essential for us to breathe. The diaphragm contracts rhythmically and continually to allow us to breathe.
When we inhale, our diaphragm contracts and flattens to create a vacuum effect that pulls air into the lungs. As we exhale, our diaphragm relaxes to help push air out of the lungs. The action of the diaphragm is controlled subconsciously by our brain. Aside from helping us breathe, the diaphragm also increases abdominal pressure so we can vomit, urinate, or pass bowel movements, and it puts pressure on the esophagus to prevent acid reflux.
Hiccups have inspired many superstitions over the years. Some believe that getting hiccups means someone is talking about or missing us. Others have claimed that hiccups are caused by elves or spirits! However, science tells us that hiccups occur when our diaphragm involuntarily spasms. During an episode of hiccups, our brain signals our diaphragm to forcefully move downward and contract, which causes air to get sucked into the back of our throat. As this happens, our vocal cords close and create a “hic” sound.
Hiccups are the result of the physical reaction in our diaphragm. The hiccup reflex starts with major nerve pathways from the diaphragm region (the phrenic and vagus nerves). From there, the information is processed in the midbrain, which is also responsible for several other reflexes. The midbrain then sends signals to widespread nerve pathways that control the muscles in the diaphragm and chest.
That’s quite the journey through our body! Let’s take a look at some different factors that can trigger the hiccup reflex.
Does alcohol cause us to hiccup? The short answer is yes, alcohol can lead to hiccups! Alcohol acts directly on our brain and central nervous system, making its way to every corner of our body and slowing down nerve signals. Drunk hiccups can directly result from changes to the nervous system and inhibition of signals in the brain or result indirectly by causing acid reflux and filling up our stomach with carbonation.
Whether we get alcohol hiccups or hiccups from other causes, they manifest in the same way. At best, they’re an annoyance — but they do have a dark side.
Depending on the duration, hiccups have different classifications.
Acute hiccups should go away on their own. Persistent hiccups and chronic hiccups typically require hospitalization. In the United States, approximately 4,000 people per year are hospitalized with problematic hiccups. If you have hiccups that last longer than 48 hours or are extremely painful, seek medical attention.
Persistent and chronic hiccups are rare but dangerous — they can interfere with eating, drinking, talking, breathing, sleeping, or cause significant pain. Risk factors include encephalitis, meningitis, multiple sclerosis, stroke, brain injury, tumors, diabetes, kidney disease, electrolyte imbalance, and damage to or irritation of the phrenic or vagus nerves.
Getting hiccups after drinking isn’t any different than getting hiccups any other time. However, if our hiccups are a response to alcohol’s depressant effect on our nervous system, the hiccups can persist until our body has processed all of the alcohol, which could take about an hour for every standard drink we’ve had.
Most of the time, hiccups will go away on their own. However, hiccups can be very annoying, and we might be willing to try almost anything to stop them. There are a lot of home remedies for hiccups that people swear by, but many of them are not backed by science.
There are a few science-backed strategies that may help relieve hiccups:
There are endless folk remedies for curing hiccups and for how to get rid of drunk hiccups specifically, but most of them are not backed by science. In most cases, time is the most reliable remedy.
The unfortunate truth is that when it comes to quick fixes for how to get rid of hiccups when drunk, there’s no shortcut. In fact, due to alcohol’s interference with the central nervous system, drunk hiccups could last even longer than sober hiccups.
Don’t forget: if you have hiccups for longer than 48 hours, seek medical attention to check for any underlying causes and get some much-needed relief.
Getting rid of drunk hiccups may be just a game of time, but there are proven ways to avoid hiccups in the first place. Let’s look at a few:
Sometimes, hiccups are an unavoidable part of life. However, alcohol is one avoidable factor! There are many health benefits to living alcohol-free or cutting back on alcohol, and eliminating hiccups from drinking is only the beginning!
Hiccup! Hiccup! Hiccup! Ugh — it’s happening again. You just got home after a night out, and somehow you have hiccups again. All you can think is how hard it’s going to be to sleep if these hiccups don’t go away — and you’ll do anything to stop them.
Most of us have experienced hiccups at some point in our lives, and they can be hard to get rid of! Keep reading to learn about why we get hiccups, how we can stop them, why alcohol famously causes hiccups, and how to prevent another attack of drinking-related hiccups in the future.
Hiccups are an involuntary spasm of the diaphragm. The diaphragm is an organ below the lungs which separates the base of the chest from the abdomen and is essential for us to breathe. The diaphragm contracts rhythmically and continually to allow us to breathe.
When we inhale, our diaphragm contracts and flattens to create a vacuum effect that pulls air into the lungs. As we exhale, our diaphragm relaxes to help push air out of the lungs. The action of the diaphragm is controlled subconsciously by our brain. Aside from helping us breathe, the diaphragm also increases abdominal pressure so we can vomit, urinate, or pass bowel movements, and it puts pressure on the esophagus to prevent acid reflux.
Hiccups have inspired many superstitions over the years. Some believe that getting hiccups means someone is talking about or missing us. Others have claimed that hiccups are caused by elves or spirits! However, science tells us that hiccups occur when our diaphragm involuntarily spasms. During an episode of hiccups, our brain signals our diaphragm to forcefully move downward and contract, which causes air to get sucked into the back of our throat. As this happens, our vocal cords close and create a “hic” sound.
Hiccups are the result of the physical reaction in our diaphragm. The hiccup reflex starts with major nerve pathways from the diaphragm region (the phrenic and vagus nerves). From there, the information is processed in the midbrain, which is also responsible for several other reflexes. The midbrain then sends signals to widespread nerve pathways that control the muscles in the diaphragm and chest.
That’s quite the journey through our body! Let’s take a look at some different factors that can trigger the hiccup reflex.
Does alcohol cause us to hiccup? The short answer is yes, alcohol can lead to hiccups! Alcohol acts directly on our brain and central nervous system, making its way to every corner of our body and slowing down nerve signals. Drunk hiccups can directly result from changes to the nervous system and inhibition of signals in the brain or result indirectly by causing acid reflux and filling up our stomach with carbonation.
Whether we get alcohol hiccups or hiccups from other causes, they manifest in the same way. At best, they’re an annoyance — but they do have a dark side.
Depending on the duration, hiccups have different classifications.
Acute hiccups should go away on their own. Persistent hiccups and chronic hiccups typically require hospitalization. In the United States, approximately 4,000 people per year are hospitalized with problematic hiccups. If you have hiccups that last longer than 48 hours or are extremely painful, seek medical attention.
Persistent and chronic hiccups are rare but dangerous — they can interfere with eating, drinking, talking, breathing, sleeping, or cause significant pain. Risk factors include encephalitis, meningitis, multiple sclerosis, stroke, brain injury, tumors, diabetes, kidney disease, electrolyte imbalance, and damage to or irritation of the phrenic or vagus nerves.
Getting hiccups after drinking isn’t any different than getting hiccups any other time. However, if our hiccups are a response to alcohol’s depressant effect on our nervous system, the hiccups can persist until our body has processed all of the alcohol, which could take about an hour for every standard drink we’ve had.
Most of the time, hiccups will go away on their own. However, hiccups can be very annoying, and we might be willing to try almost anything to stop them. There are a lot of home remedies for hiccups that people swear by, but many of them are not backed by science.
There are a few science-backed strategies that may help relieve hiccups:
There are endless folk remedies for curing hiccups and for how to get rid of drunk hiccups specifically, but most of them are not backed by science. In most cases, time is the most reliable remedy.
The unfortunate truth is that when it comes to quick fixes for how to get rid of hiccups when drunk, there’s no shortcut. In fact, due to alcohol’s interference with the central nervous system, drunk hiccups could last even longer than sober hiccups.
Don’t forget: if you have hiccups for longer than 48 hours, seek medical attention to check for any underlying causes and get some much-needed relief.
Getting rid of drunk hiccups may be just a game of time, but there are proven ways to avoid hiccups in the first place. Let’s look at a few:
Sometimes, hiccups are an unavoidable part of life. However, alcohol is one avoidable factor! There are many health benefits to living alcohol-free or cutting back on alcohol, and eliminating hiccups from drinking is only the beginning!
Does drinking alcohol make us smell bad? Learn the science behind why alcohol can, in fact, affect the way we smell.
You came to the right place! Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
If you’ve ever been to a hot yoga class on a Sunday morning and are overwhelmed by the smell of tequila emanating from the room once people start sweating, then you’re no stranger to the phenomenon of the “alcohol smell” that can linger on us after we’ve been drinking. Or perhaps a friend kindly recommended a shower because they could smell it on you. Eek! No one wants to hear that! But props to having good friends to tell us things like this.
So does drinking alcohol actually make us smell bad? And can we do anything to prevent it from happening? If you’ve ever wondered about this, read on.
There isn’t a specific term for the smell of alcohol on us when we’re drinking or after we’ve been drinking, but the odor we produce when we’ve been drinking is typically referred to as “alcohol breath” or “booze breath.” The smell of alcohol itself can range from sweet and fruity to sharp and pungent, depending on the type of alcohol we’ve been drinking. And it’s not always on our breath; it can be released in our sweat and through the pores of our skin.
Here’s a breakdown of how the process works. When we drink alcohol, our body undergoes a process known as alcohol metabolism. With the help of our digestive enzymes, our liver breaks down ethanol, the primary component in alcoholic drinks. One of these enzymes — alcohol dehydrogenase — converts ethanol into acetaldehyde, which is then further metabolized into acetic acid before being excreted or released from our bodies.
Think about it this way: our body needs to process everything we consume. In other words, the alcohol has to go somewhere. So, when our liver is already working overtime to process the alcohol we’ve consumed, what’s left over gets released throughout the rest of our body — most prominently through our skin, pores, and breath.
For heavy drinkers or those of us who have been drinkers for many years, we may have developed a serious buildup of toxins in our bodies from repeated use over time. Detoxing from some substances, particularly alcohol, is associated with a significant odor that does, indeed, make us stink. Speaking of detoxification, why do we seem to sweat more after we drink? We’ll explain that, too.
Alcohol consumption can lead to increased sweating for some of us. When alcohol enters our bloodstream, it affects our central nervous system and disrupts our body's normal regulatory mechanisms, including those that regulate our temperature control. Alcohol causes blood vessels near the skin to dilate, leading to a sensation of warmth and potentially triggering our body's cooling mechanisms, including sweating. Alcohol consumption can also stimulate our sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's fight-or-flight response. This stimulation can lead to an increase in sweat production as our body responds to the perceived “stress” that alcohol causes. Drinking alcohol can also cause us to experience night sweats.
So, how do we stop this from happening and avoid the booze smell? Of course, the best way to avoid smelling like alcohol is to abstain from it altogether or practice moderation, which is typically defined as one drink per day for women and two drinks a day for men.
Here are several other ways to avoid smelling like alcohol:
What we put into our body must come out, so not drinking alcohol is the most obvious way to avoid smelling like it.
In addition to avoiding the alcohol smell, there are many health benefits associated with drinking less:
Read more about the many positive effects we experience when we stop drinking or cut back on drinking.
When it comes to drinking and smelling bad, it’s simply a reality that comes with the territory. If we want to avoid this risk altogether, the answer is easy: eliminate alcohol from the equation. Practicing good personal hygiene, moderation, and exercise are great ways to reduce the risks of smelling bad if we choose to partake in alcohol.
If you’ve ever been to a hot yoga class on a Sunday morning and are overwhelmed by the smell of tequila emanating from the room once people start sweating, then you’re no stranger to the phenomenon of the “alcohol smell” that can linger on us after we’ve been drinking. Or perhaps a friend kindly recommended a shower because they could smell it on you. Eek! No one wants to hear that! But props to having good friends to tell us things like this.
So does drinking alcohol actually make us smell bad? And can we do anything to prevent it from happening? If you’ve ever wondered about this, read on.
There isn’t a specific term for the smell of alcohol on us when we’re drinking or after we’ve been drinking, but the odor we produce when we’ve been drinking is typically referred to as “alcohol breath” or “booze breath.” The smell of alcohol itself can range from sweet and fruity to sharp and pungent, depending on the type of alcohol we’ve been drinking. And it’s not always on our breath; it can be released in our sweat and through the pores of our skin.
Here’s a breakdown of how the process works. When we drink alcohol, our body undergoes a process known as alcohol metabolism. With the help of our digestive enzymes, our liver breaks down ethanol, the primary component in alcoholic drinks. One of these enzymes — alcohol dehydrogenase — converts ethanol into acetaldehyde, which is then further metabolized into acetic acid before being excreted or released from our bodies.
Think about it this way: our body needs to process everything we consume. In other words, the alcohol has to go somewhere. So, when our liver is already working overtime to process the alcohol we’ve consumed, what’s left over gets released throughout the rest of our body — most prominently through our skin, pores, and breath.
For heavy drinkers or those of us who have been drinkers for many years, we may have developed a serious buildup of toxins in our bodies from repeated use over time. Detoxing from some substances, particularly alcohol, is associated with a significant odor that does, indeed, make us stink. Speaking of detoxification, why do we seem to sweat more after we drink? We’ll explain that, too.
Alcohol consumption can lead to increased sweating for some of us. When alcohol enters our bloodstream, it affects our central nervous system and disrupts our body's normal regulatory mechanisms, including those that regulate our temperature control. Alcohol causes blood vessels near the skin to dilate, leading to a sensation of warmth and potentially triggering our body's cooling mechanisms, including sweating. Alcohol consumption can also stimulate our sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's fight-or-flight response. This stimulation can lead to an increase in sweat production as our body responds to the perceived “stress” that alcohol causes. Drinking alcohol can also cause us to experience night sweats.
So, how do we stop this from happening and avoid the booze smell? Of course, the best way to avoid smelling like alcohol is to abstain from it altogether or practice moderation, which is typically defined as one drink per day for women and two drinks a day for men.
Here are several other ways to avoid smelling like alcohol:
What we put into our body must come out, so not drinking alcohol is the most obvious way to avoid smelling like it.
In addition to avoiding the alcohol smell, there are many health benefits associated with drinking less:
Read more about the many positive effects we experience when we stop drinking or cut back on drinking.
When it comes to drinking and smelling bad, it’s simply a reality that comes with the territory. If we want to avoid this risk altogether, the answer is easy: eliminate alcohol from the equation. Practicing good personal hygiene, moderation, and exercise are great ways to reduce the risks of smelling bad if we choose to partake in alcohol.
At-home liver tests are a convenient option for frequent liver checks. Check out our latest blog for a step-by-step guide on how to check your liver health at home.
You’ve come to the right place! Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 forum and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Compared to the beloved brain or the hallowed heart, the liver is no ostentatious organ. It’s fairly easy to ignore, and we don’t have as many health fads reminding us to check on it.
Fortunately, with the rise of at-home conveniences, it’s now easier than ever to monitor your liver health. You may have seen at-home liver test kits pop up during your search about liver health. So, are you wondering if they really work or what they entail? Let’s walk through our guide to proper liver function and how to test liver health at home.
Located just above our stomach, our liver is the largest solid organ in our body. Our liver is commonly known for its role in metabolizing alcohol but is responsible for so many other primary functions in our body:
Our liver does so much in our body — requiring proper functioning to maintain our overall health. Let’s take a look at some factors that can influence our liver health.
Signs of liver disease or dysfunction may take time to appear. Being aware of the factors that affect our liver health can help us prevent dysfunction. Let’s consider the following factors that influence our liver health:
We’ve established that many different elements can impact our liver health, but let’s explore some ways we can detect potential problems.
Liver disease is often not detected until serious symptoms arise. Learning to identify signs of liver dysfunction helps us determine if we need to test our liver function at home. The following are signs to watch for:
If we experience any of these symptoms and are concerned about our liver health, it might be worth testing our liver health.
Liver function tests are blood tests that look at specific proteins and enzymes in our blood to help determine the functioning of our liver. Too much or too little of the proteins and enzymes that the liver function test checks for can suggest liver disease or dysfunction.
A liver panel can vary in the proteins and enzymes that are tested. The common liver function tests in a liver panel include the following:
Now that we’ve determined reasons to check our liver function, let’s explore some ways we can get a liver function test.
Our primary care physician can request a liver panel. If a liver function test is needed, we will be ordered to complete a blood test to detect any abnormalities. The test is typically performed in a laboratory, clinic, hospital, or doctor’s office. If ordered by a physician, some insurance policies may cover the cost of the panel. There may be a copayment, but the exact cost and policy will vary depending on the insurance.
A liver panel is easily requested from a practitioner, but some of us may be looking for other options.
A liver function test can be purchased online, completed at home, and referred to a lab for sample collection. Unlike lab tests, which typically involve a full blood draw, at-home testing kits mainly require a skin prick. Once the sample is taken, it is sent to a lab for analysis.
At-home liver function test costs can range from $30-$200, depending on the thoroughness of the panels. With prices as low as $30, it almost sounds too good to be true. We may be left questioning if at-home liver testing kits actually work.
Studies show that at-home liver function tests are effective and can help detect acute liver injury. At-home testing kits commonly check for the same proteins and enzymes in laboratory liver panels; however, at-home liver tests may not be as comprehensive or as accurate as in-clinic tests. The small, pinprick blood sample limits the range of at-home tests.
Results may also vary in accuracy depending on the brand of the test and the lab where the results are processed. The reports commonly indicate abnormalities by showing results “out of normal range.” However, this may not always indicate the level of dysfunction and does not provide details on potential issues. If we have serious concerns about our liver health, it’s best to skip the at-home test and see a doctor.
At-home liver function tests are most optimal for those of us who want to maintain frequent liver health checks. The tests can also be helpful for those of us who are worried about potential side effects from medication or who struggle with alcohol misuse. For those of us who have determined that at-home liver tests can be beneficial, let’s walk through the steps on how to complete one.
Before attempting to check our liver health at home, it’s important to determine if an at-home liver function test is appropriate for our personal needs. Consulting with a physician regarding serious concerns is recommended. For those who may benefit from an at-home liver test, let’s walk through a step-by-step guide to completing a liver health check at home.
Regular liver checks help to detect dysfunction and disease, but we can also implement strategies to help maintain a healthy liver.
Aside from checking our liver health from time to time, we can take other initiatives to improve and maintain healthy liver function. Let’s explore several different habits we can implement to improve our liver health:
“A healthy liver keeps the doctor away.” While that’s not exactly how the saying goes, it remains true that proper liver function is essential for our overall health. At-home liver function tests can help us check for any abnormalities without having to set foot in a doctor’s office. While consulting with a physician is always recommended when we are concerned about our health, at-home tests can be a convenient tool for maintaining regular liver health checks. Looking into your liver health can be just a click away.
Compared to the beloved brain or the hallowed heart, the liver is no ostentatious organ. It’s fairly easy to ignore, and we don’t have as many health fads reminding us to check on it.
Fortunately, with the rise of at-home conveniences, it’s now easier than ever to monitor your liver health. You may have seen at-home liver test kits pop up during your search about liver health. So, are you wondering if they really work or what they entail? Let’s walk through our guide to proper liver function and how to test liver health at home.
Located just above our stomach, our liver is the largest solid organ in our body. Our liver is commonly known for its role in metabolizing alcohol but is responsible for so many other primary functions in our body:
Our liver does so much in our body — requiring proper functioning to maintain our overall health. Let’s take a look at some factors that can influence our liver health.
Signs of liver disease or dysfunction may take time to appear. Being aware of the factors that affect our liver health can help us prevent dysfunction. Let’s consider the following factors that influence our liver health:
We’ve established that many different elements can impact our liver health, but let’s explore some ways we can detect potential problems.
Liver disease is often not detected until serious symptoms arise. Learning to identify signs of liver dysfunction helps us determine if we need to test our liver function at home. The following are signs to watch for:
If we experience any of these symptoms and are concerned about our liver health, it might be worth testing our liver health.
Liver function tests are blood tests that look at specific proteins and enzymes in our blood to help determine the functioning of our liver. Too much or too little of the proteins and enzymes that the liver function test checks for can suggest liver disease or dysfunction.
A liver panel can vary in the proteins and enzymes that are tested. The common liver function tests in a liver panel include the following:
Now that we’ve determined reasons to check our liver function, let’s explore some ways we can get a liver function test.
Our primary care physician can request a liver panel. If a liver function test is needed, we will be ordered to complete a blood test to detect any abnormalities. The test is typically performed in a laboratory, clinic, hospital, or doctor’s office. If ordered by a physician, some insurance policies may cover the cost of the panel. There may be a copayment, but the exact cost and policy will vary depending on the insurance.
A liver panel is easily requested from a practitioner, but some of us may be looking for other options.
A liver function test can be purchased online, completed at home, and referred to a lab for sample collection. Unlike lab tests, which typically involve a full blood draw, at-home testing kits mainly require a skin prick. Once the sample is taken, it is sent to a lab for analysis.
At-home liver function test costs can range from $30-$200, depending on the thoroughness of the panels. With prices as low as $30, it almost sounds too good to be true. We may be left questioning if at-home liver testing kits actually work.
Studies show that at-home liver function tests are effective and can help detect acute liver injury. At-home testing kits commonly check for the same proteins and enzymes in laboratory liver panels; however, at-home liver tests may not be as comprehensive or as accurate as in-clinic tests. The small, pinprick blood sample limits the range of at-home tests.
Results may also vary in accuracy depending on the brand of the test and the lab where the results are processed. The reports commonly indicate abnormalities by showing results “out of normal range.” However, this may not always indicate the level of dysfunction and does not provide details on potential issues. If we have serious concerns about our liver health, it’s best to skip the at-home test and see a doctor.
At-home liver function tests are most optimal for those of us who want to maintain frequent liver health checks. The tests can also be helpful for those of us who are worried about potential side effects from medication or who struggle with alcohol misuse. For those of us who have determined that at-home liver tests can be beneficial, let’s walk through the steps on how to complete one.
Before attempting to check our liver health at home, it’s important to determine if an at-home liver function test is appropriate for our personal needs. Consulting with a physician regarding serious concerns is recommended. For those who may benefit from an at-home liver test, let’s walk through a step-by-step guide to completing a liver health check at home.
Regular liver checks help to detect dysfunction and disease, but we can also implement strategies to help maintain a healthy liver.
Aside from checking our liver health from time to time, we can take other initiatives to improve and maintain healthy liver function. Let’s explore several different habits we can implement to improve our liver health:
“A healthy liver keeps the doctor away.” While that’s not exactly how the saying goes, it remains true that proper liver function is essential for our overall health. At-home liver function tests can help us check for any abnormalities without having to set foot in a doctor’s office. While consulting with a physician is always recommended when we are concerned about our health, at-home tests can be a convenient tool for maintaining regular liver health checks. Looking into your liver health can be just a click away.
Liquid NyQuil contains 10% alcohol. Read on to learn about how alcohol enhances the side effects of NyQuil and the combination can cause a variety of health problems.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
It’s that time of year: everyone seems to be sick with something! We all know and dread the coughing, sneezing, runny nose, fevers, aches, and pains that come with cold and flu. When we’re not feeling well, we know medication can help us feel better, but we might also be craving a little drink because we believe it will boost our mood or help us sleep (more on this later!). But is it safe to drink alcohol while sick and then take a cold medication such as NyQuil?
This blog will explore why drinking alcohol and taking NyQuil can be quite dangerous. Keep reading, and we will cover the basics on NyQuil and alcohol interactions — and why drinking when we’re sick can make us feel worse. Then we’ll learn some alternatives for fighting off cold and flu viruses.
NyQuil is an over-the-counter medication marketed to treat cold and flu symptoms. NyQuil has three main active ingredients – acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, and doxylamine. These active ingredients work to treat common cold or flu symptoms such as headache, body aches, fever, cough, and congestion.
Although it’s not a necessary ingredient, some forms of NyQuil have alcohol — but why is this? Alcohol is added to liquid NyQuil to help the active ingredients dissolve, but it serves no therapeutic purpose.
The active ingredients of NyQuil provide temporary relief of cold or flu symptoms. NyQuil begins to work within 30 minutes of taking it and lasts for about four to six hours. Ingredients in NyQuil can take up to two days to fully leave your system. NyQuil should only be used as advised on the bottle’s label or as advised by a medical professional — it is not recommended to use nightly as a sleep aid for many reasons. Plus, the body rapidly develops tolerance to the sedative effects of antihistamines when used regularly.
Not all NyQuil products contain alcohol. If we’re trying to avoid alcohol, it’s important to check the label of our product to confirm if alcohol is present (that includes generic forms of NyQuil).
While this is not an exhaustive list, here are some popular NyQuil products that contain alcohol:
Now let’s look at some popular alcohol-free options:
While reaching for alcohol may seem like a good way to relax, drinking actually does more harm than good. Some people swear by a hot toddy or a white whiskey & orange juice, however, drinking alcohol while sick will only make us feel worse! Here’s what alcohol actually does when we’re fighting off a cold:
We should not reach for alcohol when we’re feeling under the weather. The good news is that there are plenty of over-the-counter medications that can help us feel better when we are sick. However, we must consider that drinking alcohol while taking these medications may not be safe.
NyQuil has multiple active ingredients, so it’s important to understand how each of these interacts with alcohol. Let’s breakdown those three main components of NyQuil to see how alcohol interacts with each.
Alcohol interacts with the active ingredients in NyQuil by enhancing the associated side-effects, such as the following:
NyQuil’s label states that consuming three or more drinks while taking NyQuil can lead to severe liver damage — but that’s not an invitation to pour two drinks. The risk for developing severe liver damage or intense side effects is lower with fewer drinks, but it’s still risky.
If we regularly combine alcohol and NyQuil, there can be severe consequences to our bodies.
For these reasons, it’s not a great idea to mix alcohol and NyQuil. But what if it’s too late and we’ve already mixed the two? Are we in danger? What should we do?
While one or two drinks and a standard dose of NyQuil isn’t necessarily a medical emergency, the risks go up exponentially when the amounts increase. If you already have a liver condition, even small amounts of these substances can be harmful.
If you’ve had fewer than two drinks, you are probably okay. But, it’s best to take some precautionary measures.
If you’ve combined small amounts of NyQuil and alcohol, don’t panic. Just stay in tune with your body and look out for signs you may need medical attention.
Everyone’s body reacts differently to both alcohol and NyQuil, and individual factors like age and overall health play a big part in how we might react to the combination. The most important thing to do is listen to your body. If something feels wrong, get help, and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if any of your symptoms become severe!
Here are a few danger signs that require immediate attention:
Avoiding alcohol while sick is essential if we want to get back to good health quickly. Medications like NyQuil are helpful in reducing the uncomfortable symptoms of cold and flu. However, for those of us making a firm effort to steer clear of alcohol, there are plenty of options that don’t involve drinking or using alcohol-containing cold and flu medicines.
There are a host of over-the-counter cold and flu medications that don’t contain alcohol, including a variety of NyQuil products. Let’s review some alcohol-free ways to treat cold and flu.
Just because a product doesn’t contain alcohol does not mean it is safe to take with alcohol! Read labels and consult a doctor before taking any of these over-the-counter medications. Ultimately, recovering from a cold or flu takes time and rest! Medications or natural remedies can help us tolerate symptoms, but they will not cure them.
Colds and flus are quite unpleasant to deal with. We might think it’s a good idea to have a drink to take the edge off, but as we’ve learned throughout this blog, drinking may actually make our symptoms worse and extend our illness. Most cold and flu medications should not be mixed with alcohol, and it’s an especially bad idea to take NyQuil with alcohol!
Liquid NyQuil contains 10% alcohol, so if we are trying to avoid alcohol, we can try one of the many alcohol-free cold and flu remedies out there. We can also help prevent the next illness by exercising, eating healthy, and quitting or cutting back on alcohol — all of which will boost our immune system and overall health!
It’s that time of year: everyone seems to be sick with something! We all know and dread the coughing, sneezing, runny nose, fevers, aches, and pains that come with cold and flu. When we’re not feeling well, we know medication can help us feel better, but we might also be craving a little drink because we believe it will boost our mood or help us sleep (more on this later!). But is it safe to drink alcohol while sick and then take a cold medication such as NyQuil?
This blog will explore why drinking alcohol and taking NyQuil can be quite dangerous. Keep reading, and we will cover the basics on NyQuil and alcohol interactions — and why drinking when we’re sick can make us feel worse. Then we’ll learn some alternatives for fighting off cold and flu viruses.
NyQuil is an over-the-counter medication marketed to treat cold and flu symptoms. NyQuil has three main active ingredients – acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, and doxylamine. These active ingredients work to treat common cold or flu symptoms such as headache, body aches, fever, cough, and congestion.
Although it’s not a necessary ingredient, some forms of NyQuil have alcohol — but why is this? Alcohol is added to liquid NyQuil to help the active ingredients dissolve, but it serves no therapeutic purpose.
The active ingredients of NyQuil provide temporary relief of cold or flu symptoms. NyQuil begins to work within 30 minutes of taking it and lasts for about four to six hours. Ingredients in NyQuil can take up to two days to fully leave your system. NyQuil should only be used as advised on the bottle’s label or as advised by a medical professional — it is not recommended to use nightly as a sleep aid for many reasons. Plus, the body rapidly develops tolerance to the sedative effects of antihistamines when used regularly.
Not all NyQuil products contain alcohol. If we’re trying to avoid alcohol, it’s important to check the label of our product to confirm if alcohol is present (that includes generic forms of NyQuil).
While this is not an exhaustive list, here are some popular NyQuil products that contain alcohol:
Now let’s look at some popular alcohol-free options:
While reaching for alcohol may seem like a good way to relax, drinking actually does more harm than good. Some people swear by a hot toddy or a white whiskey & orange juice, however, drinking alcohol while sick will only make us feel worse! Here’s what alcohol actually does when we’re fighting off a cold:
We should not reach for alcohol when we’re feeling under the weather. The good news is that there are plenty of over-the-counter medications that can help us feel better when we are sick. However, we must consider that drinking alcohol while taking these medications may not be safe.
NyQuil has multiple active ingredients, so it’s important to understand how each of these interacts with alcohol. Let’s breakdown those three main components of NyQuil to see how alcohol interacts with each.
Alcohol interacts with the active ingredients in NyQuil by enhancing the associated side-effects, such as the following:
NyQuil’s label states that consuming three or more drinks while taking NyQuil can lead to severe liver damage — but that’s not an invitation to pour two drinks. The risk for developing severe liver damage or intense side effects is lower with fewer drinks, but it’s still risky.
If we regularly combine alcohol and NyQuil, there can be severe consequences to our bodies.
For these reasons, it’s not a great idea to mix alcohol and NyQuil. But what if it’s too late and we’ve already mixed the two? Are we in danger? What should we do?
While one or two drinks and a standard dose of NyQuil isn’t necessarily a medical emergency, the risks go up exponentially when the amounts increase. If you already have a liver condition, even small amounts of these substances can be harmful.
If you’ve had fewer than two drinks, you are probably okay. But, it’s best to take some precautionary measures.
If you’ve combined small amounts of NyQuil and alcohol, don’t panic. Just stay in tune with your body and look out for signs you may need medical attention.
Everyone’s body reacts differently to both alcohol and NyQuil, and individual factors like age and overall health play a big part in how we might react to the combination. The most important thing to do is listen to your body. If something feels wrong, get help, and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if any of your symptoms become severe!
Here are a few danger signs that require immediate attention:
Avoiding alcohol while sick is essential if we want to get back to good health quickly. Medications like NyQuil are helpful in reducing the uncomfortable symptoms of cold and flu. However, for those of us making a firm effort to steer clear of alcohol, there are plenty of options that don’t involve drinking or using alcohol-containing cold and flu medicines.
There are a host of over-the-counter cold and flu medications that don’t contain alcohol, including a variety of NyQuil products. Let’s review some alcohol-free ways to treat cold and flu.
Just because a product doesn’t contain alcohol does not mean it is safe to take with alcohol! Read labels and consult a doctor before taking any of these over-the-counter medications. Ultimately, recovering from a cold or flu takes time and rest! Medications or natural remedies can help us tolerate symptoms, but they will not cure them.
Colds and flus are quite unpleasant to deal with. We might think it’s a good idea to have a drink to take the edge off, but as we’ve learned throughout this blog, drinking may actually make our symptoms worse and extend our illness. Most cold and flu medications should not be mixed with alcohol, and it’s an especially bad idea to take NyQuil with alcohol!
Liquid NyQuil contains 10% alcohol, so if we are trying to avoid alcohol, we can try one of the many alcohol-free cold and flu remedies out there. We can also help prevent the next illness by exercising, eating healthy, and quitting or cutting back on alcohol — all of which will boost our immune system and overall health!
As an opioid, Tramadol is a prescription medication used for pain relief. Consuming alcohol while taking Tramadol is extremely dangerous and significantly increases the chances of having an overdose.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet hundreds of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Pain from a recent surgery or injury can be a burden. For relief, we may be prescribed an opioid such as Tramadol. As we start to recover, we might be tempted to start our normal routines and activities. That Friday night happy hour with coworkers sounds like the perfect way to unwind after a long week! But wait … what about that Tramadol? What happens if we have just one drink? Is it safe?
In this blog, we will learn that it is not safe to drink alcohol while taking Tramadol. Keep reading to learn the science behind the dangers of mixing alcohol and Tramadol. Learn some tips for cutting back on both substances and when it is safe to drink alcohol after we stop taking Tramadol.
Tramadol is a prescription medication used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It is in the class of medications called opioids, which are derived from or mimic the opium poppy plant. Opioids are prescribed by physicians for pain management but are known for being highly addictive. Tramadol is a synthetic opioid and has a lower level of opioid content than other opioids such as morphine, oxycodone, or fentanyl, so it is thought to have lower addiction potential than others. Taking Tramadol outside of the prescription parameters is illegal and has dangerous consequences!
Tramadol is a depressant drug, meaning it slows down the central nervous system by acting on opioid receptors and neurotransmitters in our brains. Our brains have an endogenous (built-in) opioid-production system that helps us cope with stress and pain while increasing feelings of pleasure, relaxation, and contentment.
Endogenous opioids also control our breathing, coughing, and that warm, relaxed, satisfied feeling following exercise. When we take Tramadol, it partially binds to our opioid receptors, which then release endorphins (euphoria hormones) that reduce the sensation of pain.
Tramadol is not one of the strongest opioids, because it doesn’t bind as strongly to opioid receptors. However, Tramadol affects other neurotransmitters in our brain. Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that are responsible for communication between the cells (neurons).
Tramadol impacts the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and serotonin. Norepinephrine is known as the body's “fight-or-flight” chemical and is responsible for the regulation of arousal, attention, cognitive function, and stress reaction. That rapid increase in heart rate after hearing a loud noise comes from norepinephrine. Serotonin is referred to as the “happy” chemical because it regulates feelings of satisfaction, happiness, and optimism.
Tramadol increases the release of serotonin and blocks the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine to neurons. By blocking reabsorption of excess serotonin and norepinephrine, there are more feel-good chemicals to act on nearby neurons and change our thoughts or behavior and reduce our pain.
Tramadol is effective at reducing moderate to severe pain, but it does come at a cost. Let’s review some common side effects associated with Tramadol.
Serious (and less common) side effects include the following:
There is a risk for overdose with Tramadol if we do not follow the medically prescribed doses. If you notice any of the following signs of overdose, immediately seek emergency medical care!
Tramadol misuse can be dangerous to our health. If we take Tramadol as prescribed, we might only experience minor side effects. Before we decide to have a drink while we are on Tramadol, let’s figure out how alcohol and Tramadol might interact.
You should never drink alcohol while on Tramadol or other opioids! It doesn’t matter if it's beer, wine, or your favorite spirit — even a low amount of alcohol can have life-threatening consequences! Let’s go through some of the dangers of having alcohol and Tramadol.
Drinking alcohol while on Tramadol is not advised! It can lead to severe consequences such as injury or death!
Treatment for polysubstance drug dependence (misusing more than one drug at once) must focus on treating both substances at once to have the best success. It’s not easy quitting multiple substances at once, but thankfully there are ways to make quitting alcohol and Tramadol more manageable.
Abruptly stopping Tramadol and alcohol can be dangerous! Quitting alcohol cold turkey can result in life-threatening withdrawal symptoms such as seizures or delirium tremens. Seek advice from medical professionals before attempting to quit Tramadol and alcohol use.
There are many other medications that are unsafe to mix with Tramadol. In general, sedatives or medications that slow the brain, medications that raise serotonin levels, or other opioids should be avoided while taking Tramadol. Let’s review some other substances that you should not mix with Tramadol.
Always consult your physician and a pharmacist before adding any medications to your regimen.
We learned that drinking alcohol while taking Tramadol can be extremely dangerous, but you may be wondering, “How long after taking Tramadol can I drink alcohol?”
Tramadol has a half-life of six to eight hours. A half-life is the amount of time our bodies take to reduce the amount of drug by one half. It takes the body about four or five half-lives to fully get rid of Tramadol. It’s safest to wait 30-40 hours after our last dose of Tramadol before we start drinking. That’s about a day and a half.
Tramadol is an opioid medication used to treat pain. Alcohol and Tramadol are both depressants and when taken together, they can intensify one another’s side effects. We should not drink alcohol while on Tramadol because it can lead to serious side effects and increase our chances of overdose. Trying to quit both substances at once can be dangerous and it’s advised to seek medical attention while detoxing.
Pain from a recent surgery or injury can be a burden. For relief, we may be prescribed an opioid such as Tramadol. As we start to recover, we might be tempted to start our normal routines and activities. That Friday night happy hour with coworkers sounds like the perfect way to unwind after a long week! But wait … what about that Tramadol? What happens if we have just one drink? Is it safe?
In this blog, we will learn that it is not safe to drink alcohol while taking Tramadol. Keep reading to learn the science behind the dangers of mixing alcohol and Tramadol. Learn some tips for cutting back on both substances and when it is safe to drink alcohol after we stop taking Tramadol.
Tramadol is a prescription medication used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It is in the class of medications called opioids, which are derived from or mimic the opium poppy plant. Opioids are prescribed by physicians for pain management but are known for being highly addictive. Tramadol is a synthetic opioid and has a lower level of opioid content than other opioids such as morphine, oxycodone, or fentanyl, so it is thought to have lower addiction potential than others. Taking Tramadol outside of the prescription parameters is illegal and has dangerous consequences!
Tramadol is a depressant drug, meaning it slows down the central nervous system by acting on opioid receptors and neurotransmitters in our brains. Our brains have an endogenous (built-in) opioid-production system that helps us cope with stress and pain while increasing feelings of pleasure, relaxation, and contentment.
Endogenous opioids also control our breathing, coughing, and that warm, relaxed, satisfied feeling following exercise. When we take Tramadol, it partially binds to our opioid receptors, which then release endorphins (euphoria hormones) that reduce the sensation of pain.
Tramadol is not one of the strongest opioids, because it doesn’t bind as strongly to opioid receptors. However, Tramadol affects other neurotransmitters in our brain. Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that are responsible for communication between the cells (neurons).
Tramadol impacts the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and serotonin. Norepinephrine is known as the body's “fight-or-flight” chemical and is responsible for the regulation of arousal, attention, cognitive function, and stress reaction. That rapid increase in heart rate after hearing a loud noise comes from norepinephrine. Serotonin is referred to as the “happy” chemical because it regulates feelings of satisfaction, happiness, and optimism.
Tramadol increases the release of serotonin and blocks the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine to neurons. By blocking reabsorption of excess serotonin and norepinephrine, there are more feel-good chemicals to act on nearby neurons and change our thoughts or behavior and reduce our pain.
Tramadol is effective at reducing moderate to severe pain, but it does come at a cost. Let’s review some common side effects associated with Tramadol.
Serious (and less common) side effects include the following:
There is a risk for overdose with Tramadol if we do not follow the medically prescribed doses. If you notice any of the following signs of overdose, immediately seek emergency medical care!
Tramadol misuse can be dangerous to our health. If we take Tramadol as prescribed, we might only experience minor side effects. Before we decide to have a drink while we are on Tramadol, let’s figure out how alcohol and Tramadol might interact.
You should never drink alcohol while on Tramadol or other opioids! It doesn’t matter if it's beer, wine, or your favorite spirit — even a low amount of alcohol can have life-threatening consequences! Let’s go through some of the dangers of having alcohol and Tramadol.
Drinking alcohol while on Tramadol is not advised! It can lead to severe consequences such as injury or death!
Treatment for polysubstance drug dependence (misusing more than one drug at once) must focus on treating both substances at once to have the best success. It’s not easy quitting multiple substances at once, but thankfully there are ways to make quitting alcohol and Tramadol more manageable.
Abruptly stopping Tramadol and alcohol can be dangerous! Quitting alcohol cold turkey can result in life-threatening withdrawal symptoms such as seizures or delirium tremens. Seek advice from medical professionals before attempting to quit Tramadol and alcohol use.
There are many other medications that are unsafe to mix with Tramadol. In general, sedatives or medications that slow the brain, medications that raise serotonin levels, or other opioids should be avoided while taking Tramadol. Let’s review some other substances that you should not mix with Tramadol.
Always consult your physician and a pharmacist before adding any medications to your regimen.
We learned that drinking alcohol while taking Tramadol can be extremely dangerous, but you may be wondering, “How long after taking Tramadol can I drink alcohol?”
Tramadol has a half-life of six to eight hours. A half-life is the amount of time our bodies take to reduce the amount of drug by one half. It takes the body about four or five half-lives to fully get rid of Tramadol. It’s safest to wait 30-40 hours after our last dose of Tramadol before we start drinking. That’s about a day and a half.
Tramadol is an opioid medication used to treat pain. Alcohol and Tramadol are both depressants and when taken together, they can intensify one another’s side effects. We should not drink alcohol while on Tramadol because it can lead to serious side effects and increase our chances of overdose. Trying to quit both substances at once can be dangerous and it’s advised to seek medical attention while detoxing.
What is the mystery behind moonshine? Learn about how moonshine came to be and the science behind the dangers of consuming moonshine.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
The definition of moonshine is confusing at best. You may be thinking, “Isn’t moonshine that drink that can make you blind?” Or maybe you think of it as the famous Prohibition-era booze people made at home in their bathtubs. Even the hip-hop and country music star Nelly was a bit confused on the “moonshine” label, as he crafted his own celebrity “moonshine” last year, which really consisted more of a fruity, lower-proof spirit than the traditional moonshine whiskey.
Many people think of moonshine as some sort of off-limits alcohol, but it’s also a term for a class of unaged whiskey.
So, what exactly makes moonshine, moonshine? What is moonshine made out of? And can moonshine make you blind? Let’s dive in and explore the difference between the two definitions of moonshine and learn about the dangers of moonshine production and consumption.
The first moonshine came around in England in the late 1700s, but the word moonshine has been around since the 15th century. Fundamentally, moonshine was created to avoid paying taxes on high-proof liquor production.
Originally, the term “moonshine” referred to a distilled liquor produced and/or distributed illegally. The term “moonshine” comes from the tradition of making the liquor under the cover of darkness to avoid detection. Over the years, it developed a standard definition as a clear, unaged, high-proof whiskey made from corn. This definition was commonly used during Prohibition in the U.S. in the 1920s. Other names for moonshine include rotgut, white lightning, white dog, and corn liquor.
Moonshine has a particularly rich history in the United States.
Traditionally, moonshine is made from corn. However, sometimes moonshiners (a.k.a. people who make moonshine) use rye or barley instead. Yeast, malt, sugar, and water are also added to the mix, with each moonshiner having their own particular preference.
Moonshine was originally popular because it could be created and purchased without paying taxes, but in modern times it’s sought out for its flavor and high alcohol content. Ethanol is the pure alcohol responsible for intoxication in alcoholic beverages. However, the moonshine distillation process creates a toxic byproduct called methanol that can have deadly consequences when consumed.
Moonshine is known for having significantly higher alcohol content than other hard liquors. Vodka, bourbon, and gin, for example, do not generally reach an alcohol by volume (ABV) above 80% alcohol content, and typically rest in the 35%-50% range. Moonshine, however, is often much higher.
The key to moonshine’s high alcohol content lies in the production process. Keep reading to understand how the chemical composition of moonshine makes it up to 95% ABV — and how this can cause blindness or death to consumers if distilled improperly.
The most popular way to make moonshine is using a still. A still is a large, multi-chamber pot used to boil a liquid and extract certain chemicals (such as ethanol). Moonshine, in particular, uses a copper still.
Some moonshiners add flavors or other ingredients at the end, such as sugar, fruit juice, or herbal mixtures. However, these flavor additives may not be the only things hidden inside this insidious liquor.
The moonshine distillation process is very similar to the process for making other types of spirits. However, a few key details make all the difference.
Moonshine alcohol, when defined as the beverage, is an unaged clear whiskey and made from corn. It can also be up to 95% alcohol, which is much more alcohol content than most hard liquors. Let’s explore how this is different from a few other hard spirits.
These may seem similar, but the only big thing these liquors have in common is that they are all distilled. The process of moonshine distillation differs just slightly from other liquors, but it makes a huge difference.
The primary difference between common liquors and moonshine is that careful attention is paid to removing impurities from standard liquor, often with multiple rounds of distillation. By definition, moonshine is typically distilled only once.
Originally, moonshine was illegal due to its association with tax evasion. Even today there are many “illegal” distilleries that create moonshine in secret to avoid taxes, but they are less common because even major distilleries make commercial moonshine.
The danger on moonshine comes from the production process itself. If the distillation process is not done correctly, moonshine can contain high levels of a more toxic form of alcohol: methanol.
Methanol and ethanol (the two types of alcohol produced when making moonshine) are both highly flammable and have the potential to explode during the distillation process. A gas leak between the distillation apparatus and the receiving container could also spark an explosion. Ventilation is important, and illegal moonshine is often produced in non-commercial settings that were not designed with this in mind.
So, is moonshine bad for you? We knowSo, is moonshine bad for you? We know moonshine production can be dangerous, especially when moonshiners are inexperienced and don’t understand the precautions necessary for safety — and unfortunately, drinking it can be just as dangerous. moonshine production can be dangerous, especially when moonshiners are inexperienced and don’t understand the precautions necessary for safety — and, unfortunately, drinking it can be just as dangerous.
So, what is so dangerous about drinking moonshine? It has a reputation as a dangerous liquor, but the details are not often discussed. As we discussed earlier, methanol is a form of alcohol created during moonshine production alongside the commonly-known ethanol. The differences between ethanol and methanol are molecular, and they impact our body in dramatically different ways.
Is there any truth to the rumors of “moonshine blindness”? Science says yes, moonshine can indeed make you blind. Humans can tolerate generous amounts of ethanol, but only a few milliliters of methanol will get us extremely drunk, and it only takes a few more milliliters later for methanol to become lethal. Our liver processes methanol into formaldehyde, and later into formic acid. As little as 2 teaspoons (10 mL) of methanol produces enough formic acid to cause blindness.
Because moonshine and methanol are both clear liquids, it’s impossible to tell if it contains any methanol just by looking at it. Commercial moonshine producers have the means to eliminate methanol after distillation, but some illegal moonshiners actually add small amounts of methanol to make the drink stronger.
There is no reliable way to test for methanol content in illicit moonshine. Upon first sip, we simply get really drunk — and we might not know whether or not methanol is responsible.
2 teaspoons (10 mL) of methanol is enough to give us the worst hangover of our life, but as we know, any more than that is damaging to our eyesight. For context, one standard shot glass contains about 9 tsp (3 tbsp/44 mL). Drinking too much methanol can result in full or partial blindness. This result is called methanol-induced optic neuropathy, or Me-ION.
Me-ION causes damage to the optic nerve, which connects visual information to our brain for interpretation. Any damage to this nerve behind either eye will result in different types of (or complete) — vision loss.
The lethal dose of methanol is 6 tsp (2 tbsp/30 mL). Some people may not need that much methanol for it to be lethal, either. In facilities where moonshine is still being produced illegally, there is no way of telling how many shots or glasses of moonshine will contain lethal amounts of methanol. Remember: moonshine that is made illicitly may be stronger because methanol has been added.
Our chances of alcohol poisoning are also higher when methanol is present because of how little methanol is needed to get drunk. Not only are we putting ourselves at risk for lethal doses of methanol, but we are also putting ourselves at risk for violent hangovers and alcohol-related experiences when drinking illicitly-produced moonshine. So how do we avoid this?
Simply put, moonshine made illegally is never guaranteed safe to drink — and “moonshine blindness” is a real possibility! For this reason, it’s probably best to avoid moonshine produced outside of a licensed commercial facility, and it’s definitely best to avoid making our own moonshine.
A high alcohol tolerance may lead us to seek out moonshine for an easier “buzz.” After all, a small amount of methanol will get us more drunk than several glasses of beer, right? But the risks associated with methanol consumption are too great, and we are putting our lives at risk when we decide to drink something with methanol. High tolerance can allow us to handle a little more methanol than a casual drinker, but there’s only so much the human body can handle regardless of how the alcohol content makes us feel.
Thankfully, there are ways to stay safe and avoid the dangers of methanol in moonshine.
Throughout history, moonshine has been described romantically as a boozy rebellion to taxation, but now we know it is illegal for a reason — it’s high risk of causing permanent disability. While it may be tempting to try a beverage as strong as moonshine, remember the dangerous consequences of moonshine consumption if it’s not regulated properly. Stay safe and remember: knowledge is power!
The definition of moonshine is confusing at best. You may be thinking, “Isn’t moonshine that drink that can make you blind?” Or maybe you think of it as the famous Prohibition-era booze people made at home in their bathtubs. Even the hip-hop and country music star Nelly was a bit confused on the “moonshine” label, as he crafted his own celebrity “moonshine” last year, which really consisted more of a fruity, lower-proof spirit than the traditional moonshine whiskey.
Many people think of moonshine as some sort of off-limits alcohol, but it’s also a term for a class of unaged whiskey.
So, what exactly makes moonshine, moonshine? What is moonshine made out of? And can moonshine make you blind? Let’s dive in and explore the difference between the two definitions of moonshine and learn about the dangers of moonshine production and consumption.
The first moonshine came around in England in the late 1700s, but the word moonshine has been around since the 15th century. Fundamentally, moonshine was created to avoid paying taxes on high-proof liquor production.
Originally, the term “moonshine” referred to a distilled liquor produced and/or distributed illegally. The term “moonshine” comes from the tradition of making the liquor under the cover of darkness to avoid detection. Over the years, it developed a standard definition as a clear, unaged, high-proof whiskey made from corn. This definition was commonly used during Prohibition in the U.S. in the 1920s. Other names for moonshine include rotgut, white lightning, white dog, and corn liquor.
Moonshine has a particularly rich history in the United States.
Traditionally, moonshine is made from corn. However, sometimes moonshiners (a.k.a. people who make moonshine) use rye or barley instead. Yeast, malt, sugar, and water are also added to the mix, with each moonshiner having their own particular preference.
Moonshine was originally popular because it could be created and purchased without paying taxes, but in modern times it’s sought out for its flavor and high alcohol content. Ethanol is the pure alcohol responsible for intoxication in alcoholic beverages. However, the moonshine distillation process creates a toxic byproduct called methanol that can have deadly consequences when consumed.
Moonshine is known for having significantly higher alcohol content than other hard liquors. Vodka, bourbon, and gin, for example, do not generally reach an alcohol by volume (ABV) above 80% alcohol content, and typically rest in the 35%-50% range. Moonshine, however, is often much higher.
The key to moonshine’s high alcohol content lies in the production process. Keep reading to understand how the chemical composition of moonshine makes it up to 95% ABV — and how this can cause blindness or death to consumers if distilled improperly.
The most popular way to make moonshine is using a still. A still is a large, multi-chamber pot used to boil a liquid and extract certain chemicals (such as ethanol). Moonshine, in particular, uses a copper still.
Some moonshiners add flavors or other ingredients at the end, such as sugar, fruit juice, or herbal mixtures. However, these flavor additives may not be the only things hidden inside this insidious liquor.
The moonshine distillation process is very similar to the process for making other types of spirits. However, a few key details make all the difference.
Moonshine alcohol, when defined as the beverage, is an unaged clear whiskey and made from corn. It can also be up to 95% alcohol, which is much more alcohol content than most hard liquors. Let’s explore how this is different from a few other hard spirits.
These may seem similar, but the only big thing these liquors have in common is that they are all distilled. The process of moonshine distillation differs just slightly from other liquors, but it makes a huge difference.
The primary difference between common liquors and moonshine is that careful attention is paid to removing impurities from standard liquor, often with multiple rounds of distillation. By definition, moonshine is typically distilled only once.
Originally, moonshine was illegal due to its association with tax evasion. Even today there are many “illegal” distilleries that create moonshine in secret to avoid taxes, but they are less common because even major distilleries make commercial moonshine.
The danger on moonshine comes from the production process itself. If the distillation process is not done correctly, moonshine can contain high levels of a more toxic form of alcohol: methanol.
Methanol and ethanol (the two types of alcohol produced when making moonshine) are both highly flammable and have the potential to explode during the distillation process. A gas leak between the distillation apparatus and the receiving container could also spark an explosion. Ventilation is important, and illegal moonshine is often produced in non-commercial settings that were not designed with this in mind.
So, is moonshine bad for you? We knowSo, is moonshine bad for you? We know moonshine production can be dangerous, especially when moonshiners are inexperienced and don’t understand the precautions necessary for safety — and unfortunately, drinking it can be just as dangerous. moonshine production can be dangerous, especially when moonshiners are inexperienced and don’t understand the precautions necessary for safety — and, unfortunately, drinking it can be just as dangerous.
So, what is so dangerous about drinking moonshine? It has a reputation as a dangerous liquor, but the details are not often discussed. As we discussed earlier, methanol is a form of alcohol created during moonshine production alongside the commonly-known ethanol. The differences between ethanol and methanol are molecular, and they impact our body in dramatically different ways.
Is there any truth to the rumors of “moonshine blindness”? Science says yes, moonshine can indeed make you blind. Humans can tolerate generous amounts of ethanol, but only a few milliliters of methanol will get us extremely drunk, and it only takes a few more milliliters later for methanol to become lethal. Our liver processes methanol into formaldehyde, and later into formic acid. As little as 2 teaspoons (10 mL) of methanol produces enough formic acid to cause blindness.
Because moonshine and methanol are both clear liquids, it’s impossible to tell if it contains any methanol just by looking at it. Commercial moonshine producers have the means to eliminate methanol after distillation, but some illegal moonshiners actually add small amounts of methanol to make the drink stronger.
There is no reliable way to test for methanol content in illicit moonshine. Upon first sip, we simply get really drunk — and we might not know whether or not methanol is responsible.
2 teaspoons (10 mL) of methanol is enough to give us the worst hangover of our life, but as we know, any more than that is damaging to our eyesight. For context, one standard shot glass contains about 9 tsp (3 tbsp/44 mL). Drinking too much methanol can result in full or partial blindness. This result is called methanol-induced optic neuropathy, or Me-ION.
Me-ION causes damage to the optic nerve, which connects visual information to our brain for interpretation. Any damage to this nerve behind either eye will result in different types of (or complete) — vision loss.
The lethal dose of methanol is 6 tsp (2 tbsp/30 mL). Some people may not need that much methanol for it to be lethal, either. In facilities where moonshine is still being produced illegally, there is no way of telling how many shots or glasses of moonshine will contain lethal amounts of methanol. Remember: moonshine that is made illicitly may be stronger because methanol has been added.
Our chances of alcohol poisoning are also higher when methanol is present because of how little methanol is needed to get drunk. Not only are we putting ourselves at risk for lethal doses of methanol, but we are also putting ourselves at risk for violent hangovers and alcohol-related experiences when drinking illicitly-produced moonshine. So how do we avoid this?
Simply put, moonshine made illegally is never guaranteed safe to drink — and “moonshine blindness” is a real possibility! For this reason, it’s probably best to avoid moonshine produced outside of a licensed commercial facility, and it’s definitely best to avoid making our own moonshine.
A high alcohol tolerance may lead us to seek out moonshine for an easier “buzz.” After all, a small amount of methanol will get us more drunk than several glasses of beer, right? But the risks associated with methanol consumption are too great, and we are putting our lives at risk when we decide to drink something with methanol. High tolerance can allow us to handle a little more methanol than a casual drinker, but there’s only so much the human body can handle regardless of how the alcohol content makes us feel.
Thankfully, there are ways to stay safe and avoid the dangers of methanol in moonshine.
Throughout history, moonshine has been described romantically as a boozy rebellion to taxation, but now we know it is illegal for a reason — it’s high risk of causing permanent disability. While it may be tempting to try a beverage as strong as moonshine, remember the dangerous consequences of moonshine consumption if it’s not regulated properly. Stay safe and remember: knowledge is power!
If you’ve ever had a fever and chills after drinking alcohol, you’re not imagining things! Learn the science behind this phenomenon and how to stay safe.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Imagine this: after an evening of having a few drinks with friends, you wake up feeling crummy, but this isn’t a usual hangover. It’s not just the typical headache and nausea, but also an unusual warmth flooding your body. You reach for the thermometer and there it is — a fever. How did a night of drinking lead to feeling feverish the next day?
Is there a direct link between alcohol consumption and developing a fever after drinking? Can alcohol cause fever symptoms or are these feelings just another dimension of the dreaded hangover? In this article, we'll dive into the effects of alcohol on the body, dissect the relationship between hangover and fever symptoms, and explore whether the "alcohol-induced fever" is a myth or a medical reality. We'll also touch upon the risks of drinking when you’re already sick and provide guidance on when it might be time to seek medical attention.
So, if you've ever found yourself feeling unusually warm after a night out, read on to discover what's really happening inside your body.
Experiencing a fever after drinking alcohol might feel just like being sick, but it's a bit more complex than that. Alcohol interacts with several systems in our body that could produce fever-like symptoms and chills.
If we’ve ever felt feverish after drinking, we’re not imagining things! The term "alcohol fever" is a bit of a misnomer, however. In most cases, our “fever” is some combination of the conditions above.
Rest assured that those fever-like symptoms won’t last too long. Even if we do experience an immune system disruption, it’s likely to be mild and it should resolve by the next day.
But what happens if we drink when we already have a fever? Can alcohol make things worse? Unfortunately, the answer is yes.
Drinking alcohol when we're already battling a fever introduces unnecessary challenges to a body that’s already fighting off foreign invaders. This combo could not only prolong our illness but could also introduce new health complications. Let’s take a closer look at why alcohol and fevers don't mix well.
Drinking alcohol with a fever is not a good idea. It can prolong illness and cause dangerous side effects. If you're feeling unwell or experiencing fever symptoms, the best course of action is to avoid alcohol entirely. Here are a few reasons why:
While it might be tempting to reach for a drink to ease the discomfort of a fever, drinking while feverish is risky. Making sure you’re hydrated, getting enough rest, and seeking proper medical care if needed are safer and more effective ways to recover.
It's crucial to be able to distinguish between the typical symptoms of a hangover and signs that something more serious might be going on. Most hangover symptoms are uncomfortable but not life-threatening. However, there are certain instances when seeking medical attention becomes necessary.
Hangovers can bring on headaches, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, dizziness, thirst, and fatigue. These symptoms usually resolve within 24 hours as our body processes the alcohol.
If you experience symptoms that are severe, unusual, or persist beyond the expected timeframe of a hangover, it might be indicative of a more serious issue. Key signs to watch out for include:
If you’re experiencing the above symptoms, seek immediate medical care. Call 911 (or your local emergency services number) or enlist a trusted friend or loved one to get you to a hospital. These symptoms can’t wait until your doctor’s office opens — they indicate an emergency. If you're unsure whether your symptoms are hangover-related or indicative of a more serious condition, err on the side of caution and seek medical advice.
If you've consumed a significant amount of alcohol and begin to feel unusually unwell, it's important to monitor your symptoms closely. Keep notes or reach out to a trusted caretaker and ask them to check on you regularly. This is particularly true if you have underlying health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol consumption.
Now, let’s take a deeper look at alcohol’s effects on the body to understand why it can wreak havoc on our system. Beyond alcohol-induced fevers, there’s a number of unpleasant surprises we can expect when we drink, especially if we overdo it.
As soon as we take a sip of alcohol, it starts making its way through our body. Alcohol is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, meaning it slows down nerve signals in our body. From the moment it touches our tongue, alcohol gets to work by dulling our sense of taste!
Alcohol is mostly absorbed into our bloodstream from our stomach and intestines. From there, it travels throughout the body and brain and changes how our neurotransmitters function. Here are some of the main neurotransmitters affected:
Meanwhile, our liver is hard at work metabolizing alcohol and getting it out of our system. The liver converts alcohol into a toxic compound called acetaldehyde, which is responsible for most of the nasty hangover symptoms we see the day after drinking.
Our brain doesn’t like being out of balance. To restore the proper ratio of neurotransmitters, the brain changes how much dopamine, glutamate, and GABA it produces. Once alcohol is out of our system, we have a rebound and feel the opposite way we did while drunk. Instead of calm and euphoric, we feel overstimulated and maybe a little down in the dumps.
But there’s more chemical chaos going on inside us than just changes to our neurotransmitters. Our liver is still working to eliminate the byproducts of alcohol consumption, including that pesky compound we mentioned earlier: acetaldehyde.
The morning after drinking, acetaldehyde is still present in our system, making us feel crummy, achey, and nauseous. Throughout the day, our liver continues its clean-up efforts and gets rid of the acetaldehyde, converting it into acetate and expelling it through our urine.
All of this sounds pretty unfun, and those of us who have experienced a hangover can confirm how unpleasant it is. But can a hangover cause a fever?
Acetaldehyde can trigger an inflammatory response as the immune system attempts to fight off the toxin. This can produce fever-like symptoms and chills that trick us into thinking maybe we’re coming down with something.
Acetaldehyde isn’t the only culprit in an alcohol fever — there’s a whole bunch of usual suspects to investigate.
Remember, while a hangRemember, while a hangover can make us feel bad, it shouldn't make us feel like we're in danger. Paying attention to our body and recognizing abnormal symptoms can ensure that we receive appropriate care when needed.over can make us feel bad, it shouldn't make us feel like we're in danger. Paying attention to our body and recognizing abnormal symptoms can ensure that we receive appropriate care when needed.
Prioritizing our health after drinking is key to preventing complications. Of course, the best way to prevent alcohol-related complications is to drink mindfully and practice moderation.
If you feel like you aren’t in control of your drinking, consider seeking professional help and using an app like Reframe to evaluate your relationship with alcohol and make a plan to cut back or quit. You have the power!
Imagine this: after an evening of having a few drinks with friends, you wake up feeling crummy, but this isn’t a usual hangover. It’s not just the typical headache and nausea, but also an unusual warmth flooding your body. You reach for the thermometer and there it is — a fever. How did a night of drinking lead to feeling feverish the next day?
Is there a direct link between alcohol consumption and developing a fever after drinking? Can alcohol cause fever symptoms or are these feelings just another dimension of the dreaded hangover? In this article, we'll dive into the effects of alcohol on the body, dissect the relationship between hangover and fever symptoms, and explore whether the "alcohol-induced fever" is a myth or a medical reality. We'll also touch upon the risks of drinking when you’re already sick and provide guidance on when it might be time to seek medical attention.
So, if you've ever found yourself feeling unusually warm after a night out, read on to discover what's really happening inside your body.
Experiencing a fever after drinking alcohol might feel just like being sick, but it's a bit more complex than that. Alcohol interacts with several systems in our body that could produce fever-like symptoms and chills.
If we’ve ever felt feverish after drinking, we’re not imagining things! The term "alcohol fever" is a bit of a misnomer, however. In most cases, our “fever” is some combination of the conditions above.
Rest assured that those fever-like symptoms won’t last too long. Even if we do experience an immune system disruption, it’s likely to be mild and it should resolve by the next day.
But what happens if we drink when we already have a fever? Can alcohol make things worse? Unfortunately, the answer is yes.
Drinking alcohol when we're already battling a fever introduces unnecessary challenges to a body that’s already fighting off foreign invaders. This combo could not only prolong our illness but could also introduce new health complications. Let’s take a closer look at why alcohol and fevers don't mix well.
Drinking alcohol with a fever is not a good idea. It can prolong illness and cause dangerous side effects. If you're feeling unwell or experiencing fever symptoms, the best course of action is to avoid alcohol entirely. Here are a few reasons why:
While it might be tempting to reach for a drink to ease the discomfort of a fever, drinking while feverish is risky. Making sure you’re hydrated, getting enough rest, and seeking proper medical care if needed are safer and more effective ways to recover.
It's crucial to be able to distinguish between the typical symptoms of a hangover and signs that something more serious might be going on. Most hangover symptoms are uncomfortable but not life-threatening. However, there are certain instances when seeking medical attention becomes necessary.
Hangovers can bring on headaches, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, dizziness, thirst, and fatigue. These symptoms usually resolve within 24 hours as our body processes the alcohol.
If you experience symptoms that are severe, unusual, or persist beyond the expected timeframe of a hangover, it might be indicative of a more serious issue. Key signs to watch out for include:
If you’re experiencing the above symptoms, seek immediate medical care. Call 911 (or your local emergency services number) or enlist a trusted friend or loved one to get you to a hospital. These symptoms can’t wait until your doctor’s office opens — they indicate an emergency. If you're unsure whether your symptoms are hangover-related or indicative of a more serious condition, err on the side of caution and seek medical advice.
If you've consumed a significant amount of alcohol and begin to feel unusually unwell, it's important to monitor your symptoms closely. Keep notes or reach out to a trusted caretaker and ask them to check on you regularly. This is particularly true if you have underlying health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol consumption.
Now, let’s take a deeper look at alcohol’s effects on the body to understand why it can wreak havoc on our system. Beyond alcohol-induced fevers, there’s a number of unpleasant surprises we can expect when we drink, especially if we overdo it.
As soon as we take a sip of alcohol, it starts making its way through our body. Alcohol is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, meaning it slows down nerve signals in our body. From the moment it touches our tongue, alcohol gets to work by dulling our sense of taste!
Alcohol is mostly absorbed into our bloodstream from our stomach and intestines. From there, it travels throughout the body and brain and changes how our neurotransmitters function. Here are some of the main neurotransmitters affected:
Meanwhile, our liver is hard at work metabolizing alcohol and getting it out of our system. The liver converts alcohol into a toxic compound called acetaldehyde, which is responsible for most of the nasty hangover symptoms we see the day after drinking.
Our brain doesn’t like being out of balance. To restore the proper ratio of neurotransmitters, the brain changes how much dopamine, glutamate, and GABA it produces. Once alcohol is out of our system, we have a rebound and feel the opposite way we did while drunk. Instead of calm and euphoric, we feel overstimulated and maybe a little down in the dumps.
But there’s more chemical chaos going on inside us than just changes to our neurotransmitters. Our liver is still working to eliminate the byproducts of alcohol consumption, including that pesky compound we mentioned earlier: acetaldehyde.
The morning after drinking, acetaldehyde is still present in our system, making us feel crummy, achey, and nauseous. Throughout the day, our liver continues its clean-up efforts and gets rid of the acetaldehyde, converting it into acetate and expelling it through our urine.
All of this sounds pretty unfun, and those of us who have experienced a hangover can confirm how unpleasant it is. But can a hangover cause a fever?
Acetaldehyde can trigger an inflammatory response as the immune system attempts to fight off the toxin. This can produce fever-like symptoms and chills that trick us into thinking maybe we’re coming down with something.
Acetaldehyde isn’t the only culprit in an alcohol fever — there’s a whole bunch of usual suspects to investigate.
Remember, while a hangRemember, while a hangover can make us feel bad, it shouldn't make us feel like we're in danger. Paying attention to our body and recognizing abnormal symptoms can ensure that we receive appropriate care when needed.over can make us feel bad, it shouldn't make us feel like we're in danger. Paying attention to our body and recognizing abnormal symptoms can ensure that we receive appropriate care when needed.
Prioritizing our health after drinking is key to preventing complications. Of course, the best way to prevent alcohol-related complications is to drink mindfully and practice moderation.
If you feel like you aren’t in control of your drinking, consider seeking professional help and using an app like Reframe to evaluate your relationship with alcohol and make a plan to cut back or quit. You have the power!
Do you ever feel dizzy or get vertigo after drinking alcohol? Check out our latest blog to learn more about the surprising link between vertigo and alcohol.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Head in a whirlwind after drinking alcohol? Turns out, it can be more than just the normal hangover spins. If you’ve ever had a little too much to drink then you’ll know that nausea, dizziness, and headaches can all be part of the painful aftermath. However, drinking can cause even more debilitating symptoms of vertigo for some.
Vertigo can be an incredibly disorienting experience. Whether we have vertigo or would like to prevent the risk of experiencing any symptoms, learning more about how alcohol affects the body can shed some light on why alcohol and vertigo are commonly associated. Let’s take a closer look at the science behind the connection between vertigo and alcohol and provide some strategies to stay away from the spins.
Vertigo is a condition characterized by sensations of spinning or swaying. Despite the perception of movement, these sensations occur when we or our surroundings are completely still.
Imagine experiencing the whirling feeling of riding Disneyland’s infamous teacups while sitting quietly in a chair.
To better understand the connection between alcohol and vertigo, let’s first look at how vertigo happens.
Vertigo can present with a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms. Not everyone will experience all the symptoms, and the severity of the manifestations will vary. Common vertigo-related experiences include:
These symptoms can occur as a result of two different types of vertigo — peripheral or central vertigo. Let’s examine in further detail what causes the different types of vertigo.
Peripheral vertigo is caused by problems in the inner ear or the vestibulocochlear nerve that sends signals to the brain. Central vertigo is caused by impacts on the brainstem or cerebellum. Specific causes of vertigo include the following:
After exploring the different causes of vertigo, we see that alcohol and vertigo are positively correlated. Let’s take a closer look at how alcohol affects our brain and systems in our body to understand how alcohol and vertigo are connected.
Alcohol is categorized as a central nervous system depressant. The central nervous system is in charge of sending and receiving messages between the brain and body. Alcohol slows down the sensory input we need to orient ourselves in space. An extra few milliseconds can make a huge difference when it comes to standing up straight.
Additionally, alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it dehydrates us by stimulating urine production. This can affect the fluid of the inner ear that allows us to control our balance. This combination of sensory inhibition and inner ear fluid disruption directly causes vertigo.
So what does that mean for those of us who are prone to experiencing this disorienting dizziness?
Ever have “just one more cheat day” that turns into a cheat week or month before starting a diet? Some of us may fall into the trap of black-and-white thinking, reasoning that since we already experience vertigo, having a drink or two won’t matter. However, drinking while already susceptible to vertigo will only make it worse and may lead to permanent damage.
Let’s further examine the direct impacts that drinking alcohol has on vertigo.
Now that we’ve acknowledged the direct correlation between alcohol and vertigo, let’s take a look at four ways that alcohol can impact vertigo.
Even small amounts of alcohol have the potential to elicit vertigo, especially for those of us who are more susceptible. Luckily, if you do experience vertigo after drinking alcohol, there are ways to help manage the unpleasant effects.
If you experience vertigo symptoms while drinking, it’s best to stop immediately. Focus on hydrating and resting while the body works to process and break down the alcohol.
When vertigo symptoms appear during a hangover, it may exacerbate other hangover experiences. Some ways to help relieve vertigo symptoms include the following:
While there are methods that can help relieve symptoms of vertigo, the solutions are only short term. Here are some things to try:
Dizziness is often brushed off as a normal hangover symptom. But the link between vertigo and alcohol helps to explain why we may suffer from more than just the spins. Understanding how alcohol causes and worsens vertigo can motivate us to make more intentional decisions about drinking. There are plenty of ways to reduce alcohol-induced vertigo symptoms, but ultimately, decreasing alcohol intake will decrease the risk of vertigo. Settle the spins, and take back control of your relationship with alcohol!
Head in a whirlwind after drinking alcohol? Turns out, it can be more than just the normal hangover spins. If you’ve ever had a little too much to drink then you’ll know that nausea, dizziness, and headaches can all be part of the painful aftermath. However, drinking can cause even more debilitating symptoms of vertigo for some.
Vertigo can be an incredibly disorienting experience. Whether we have vertigo or would like to prevent the risk of experiencing any symptoms, learning more about how alcohol affects the body can shed some light on why alcohol and vertigo are commonly associated. Let’s take a closer look at the science behind the connection between vertigo and alcohol and provide some strategies to stay away from the spins.
Vertigo is a condition characterized by sensations of spinning or swaying. Despite the perception of movement, these sensations occur when we or our surroundings are completely still.
Imagine experiencing the whirling feeling of riding Disneyland’s infamous teacups while sitting quietly in a chair.
To better understand the connection between alcohol and vertigo, let’s first look at how vertigo happens.
Vertigo can present with a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms. Not everyone will experience all the symptoms, and the severity of the manifestations will vary. Common vertigo-related experiences include:
These symptoms can occur as a result of two different types of vertigo — peripheral or central vertigo. Let’s examine in further detail what causes the different types of vertigo.
Peripheral vertigo is caused by problems in the inner ear or the vestibulocochlear nerve that sends signals to the brain. Central vertigo is caused by impacts on the brainstem or cerebellum. Specific causes of vertigo include the following:
After exploring the different causes of vertigo, we see that alcohol and vertigo are positively correlated. Let’s take a closer look at how alcohol affects our brain and systems in our body to understand how alcohol and vertigo are connected.
Alcohol is categorized as a central nervous system depressant. The central nervous system is in charge of sending and receiving messages between the brain and body. Alcohol slows down the sensory input we need to orient ourselves in space. An extra few milliseconds can make a huge difference when it comes to standing up straight.
Additionally, alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it dehydrates us by stimulating urine production. This can affect the fluid of the inner ear that allows us to control our balance. This combination of sensory inhibition and inner ear fluid disruption directly causes vertigo.
So what does that mean for those of us who are prone to experiencing this disorienting dizziness?
Ever have “just one more cheat day” that turns into a cheat week or month before starting a diet? Some of us may fall into the trap of black-and-white thinking, reasoning that since we already experience vertigo, having a drink or two won’t matter. However, drinking while already susceptible to vertigo will only make it worse and may lead to permanent damage.
Let’s further examine the direct impacts that drinking alcohol has on vertigo.
Now that we’ve acknowledged the direct correlation between alcohol and vertigo, let’s take a look at four ways that alcohol can impact vertigo.
Even small amounts of alcohol have the potential to elicit vertigo, especially for those of us who are more susceptible. Luckily, if you do experience vertigo after drinking alcohol, there are ways to help manage the unpleasant effects.
If you experience vertigo symptoms while drinking, it’s best to stop immediately. Focus on hydrating and resting while the body works to process and break down the alcohol.
When vertigo symptoms appear during a hangover, it may exacerbate other hangover experiences. Some ways to help relieve vertigo symptoms include the following:
While there are methods that can help relieve symptoms of vertigo, the solutions are only short term. Here are some things to try:
Dizziness is often brushed off as a normal hangover symptom. But the link between vertigo and alcohol helps to explain why we may suffer from more than just the spins. Understanding how alcohol causes and worsens vertigo can motivate us to make more intentional decisions about drinking. There are plenty of ways to reduce alcohol-induced vertigo symptoms, but ultimately, decreasing alcohol intake will decrease the risk of vertigo. Settle the spins, and take back control of your relationship with alcohol!
Ever wonder why you have back pain after drinking alcohol? Learn more about the relationship between alcohol, back pain, and other issues related to spinal health.
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The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
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You wake up on a Sunday morning after a night of drinking. In addition to the hangover symptoms you feel, you notice a little twinge of back pain. Maybe you just slept wrong, and it’s no big deal, but then a thought dawns on you: could the pain you’re experiencing be related to those margaritas you drank last night?
Turns out, back pain and alcohol may actually be related. Let’s explore the link between the two in more detail as we dive into the topic together.
When it comes to the relationship between back pain and alcohol, multiple physiological factors are involved! Excessive alcohol consumption contributes to various health issues, many that are related to our nerves and contribute to back pain. Let’s take a look at some common contributors:
While moderate alcohol consumption can temporarily exacerbate existing back issues, excessive and chronic alcohol use significantly increases the risk and severity of new back problems from arising.
There are many reasons for back pain. Our back is pretty much a hub for our body’s nerves. Let’s discuss a few other conditions, such as sciatica and gastritis, that could be responsible for back pain or discomfort.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to contact your healthcare provider for a professional diagnosis and treatment recommendations, as not all back issues are related to drinking alcohol. Either way, good for you taking control of your health!
Sciatica is characterized by pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from our lower back down through our hips and legs. The severity of the pain can vary, from a mild ache to a sharp burning sensation or even severe discomfort.
Sciatica is often caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve due to factors like a herniated disc, spinal bone spur, or other spinal conditions. Sciatica can also be triggered by lower back trauma or other injuries. Common symptoms of sciatica include numbness, tingling, weakness, or difficulty moving a specific part of your body.
Ever heard of alcohol being called the “great magnifier?” Basically, this means alcohol can add to our already existing feelings, whether those feelings are emotional or physical. This same concept applies to underlying back pain or other health problems. Like we mentioned above, alcohol consumption can exacerbate existing conditions we’re experiencing and cause inflammation and dehydration, which in turn, may worsen spinal disc degeneration and increase our risk of getting a herniated disc. Also don’t forget about clumsy behavior. Similar to the slips, bumps, and falls that sometimes happen when we’re drinking, some of us might also engage in riskier behaviors when we’re drinking that could mean a potential back injury.
Another health condition to consider when we’re thinking about back pain is gastritis. Gastritis is characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining. This inflammation can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, lower back pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, or other uncomfortable symptoms like indigestion. Gastritis can be acute, occurring suddenly and lasting for a short time, or chronic, meaning it develops gradually and lasts over an extended time period.
Drinking alcohol increases our risk of gastritis in a few ways.
Now that we’re aware of the potential links between drinking alcohol and back pain, what can we do to prevent unpleasant or serious back problems?
Another important aspect of alcohol-related back pain to consider is that it might not actually be our back that’s hurting — instead, the pain could be coming from our kidneys.
Alcohol affects the kidneys in a number of ways. First of all, the dehydration it leads to makes the kidneys work overtime while disrupting the balance of electrolytes crucial to healthy kidney functioning. Moreover, heavy drinking often results in high blood pressure — a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Over time, this can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste from the blood. Finally, drinking can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. (Want to learn more? Check out “How Does Alcohol Affect Kidney Health?”)
To help avoid uncomfortable back aches and pains, here are a few ways to keep your spine (and you) happy, and prevent the risk of any painful alcohol-related accidents along the way!
Like we mentioned earlier, moderation is key to overall health and a healthy relationship with alcohol. We may have heard the term “moderation” thrown around a lot but what does it actually mean?
Moderation means consuming alcoholic beverages in reasonable limits that mitigate risks to health. Moderation implies a balanced and controlled approach to drinking, and it’s typically defined as less than 1 drink per day for women and fewer than 2 drinks per day for men.
Moderation entails making intentional and informed decisions about the quantity and frequency of our alcohol intake. Mindful drinking prioritizes our health goals and allows us to avoid negative consequences such as impaired judgment or dependency. To learn more about how mindful drinking benefits overall well-being, check out our article about health benefits of cutting back on drinking.
Everyone’s body is different and we all respond to alcohol differently. The first step to taking better care of our body is being more in tune with how we treat it. What we put into our bodies can affect the way we feel, physically and mentally. It’s never too late to start our journey to better health!
You wake up on a Sunday morning after a night of drinking. In addition to the hangover symptoms you feel, you notice a little twinge of back pain. Maybe you just slept wrong, and it’s no big deal, but then a thought dawns on you: could the pain you’re experiencing be related to those margaritas you drank last night?
Turns out, back pain and alcohol may actually be related. Let’s explore the link between the two in more detail as we dive into the topic together.
When it comes to the relationship between back pain and alcohol, multiple physiological factors are involved! Excessive alcohol consumption contributes to various health issues, many that are related to our nerves and contribute to back pain. Let’s take a look at some common contributors:
While moderate alcohol consumption can temporarily exacerbate existing back issues, excessive and chronic alcohol use significantly increases the risk and severity of new back problems from arising.
There are many reasons for back pain. Our back is pretty much a hub for our body’s nerves. Let’s discuss a few other conditions, such as sciatica and gastritis, that could be responsible for back pain or discomfort.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to contact your healthcare provider for a professional diagnosis and treatment recommendations, as not all back issues are related to drinking alcohol. Either way, good for you taking control of your health!
Sciatica is characterized by pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from our lower back down through our hips and legs. The severity of the pain can vary, from a mild ache to a sharp burning sensation or even severe discomfort.
Sciatica is often caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve due to factors like a herniated disc, spinal bone spur, or other spinal conditions. Sciatica can also be triggered by lower back trauma or other injuries. Common symptoms of sciatica include numbness, tingling, weakness, or difficulty moving a specific part of your body.
Ever heard of alcohol being called the “great magnifier?” Basically, this means alcohol can add to our already existing feelings, whether those feelings are emotional or physical. This same concept applies to underlying back pain or other health problems. Like we mentioned above, alcohol consumption can exacerbate existing conditions we’re experiencing and cause inflammation and dehydration, which in turn, may worsen spinal disc degeneration and increase our risk of getting a herniated disc. Also don’t forget about clumsy behavior. Similar to the slips, bumps, and falls that sometimes happen when we’re drinking, some of us might also engage in riskier behaviors when we’re drinking that could mean a potential back injury.
Another health condition to consider when we’re thinking about back pain is gastritis. Gastritis is characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining. This inflammation can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, lower back pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, or other uncomfortable symptoms like indigestion. Gastritis can be acute, occurring suddenly and lasting for a short time, or chronic, meaning it develops gradually and lasts over an extended time period.
Drinking alcohol increases our risk of gastritis in a few ways.
Now that we’re aware of the potential links between drinking alcohol and back pain, what can we do to prevent unpleasant or serious back problems?
Another important aspect of alcohol-related back pain to consider is that it might not actually be our back that’s hurting — instead, the pain could be coming from our kidneys.
Alcohol affects the kidneys in a number of ways. First of all, the dehydration it leads to makes the kidneys work overtime while disrupting the balance of electrolytes crucial to healthy kidney functioning. Moreover, heavy drinking often results in high blood pressure — a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Over time, this can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste from the blood. Finally, drinking can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. (Want to learn more? Check out “How Does Alcohol Affect Kidney Health?”)
To help avoid uncomfortable back aches and pains, here are a few ways to keep your spine (and you) happy, and prevent the risk of any painful alcohol-related accidents along the way!
Like we mentioned earlier, moderation is key to overall health and a healthy relationship with alcohol. We may have heard the term “moderation” thrown around a lot but what does it actually mean?
Moderation means consuming alcoholic beverages in reasonable limits that mitigate risks to health. Moderation implies a balanced and controlled approach to drinking, and it’s typically defined as less than 1 drink per day for women and fewer than 2 drinks per day for men.
Moderation entails making intentional and informed decisions about the quantity and frequency of our alcohol intake. Mindful drinking prioritizes our health goals and allows us to avoid negative consequences such as impaired judgment or dependency. To learn more about how mindful drinking benefits overall well-being, check out our article about health benefits of cutting back on drinking.
Everyone’s body is different and we all respond to alcohol differently. The first step to taking better care of our body is being more in tune with how we treat it. What we put into our bodies can affect the way we feel, physically and mentally. It’s never too late to start our journey to better health!
