No amount of pain pills will save you from a hangover headache if you get blasted to the point of blacking out. It’s best to just try not to overdo it in the first place. Don’t mix Ibuprofen and alcohol if you’re allergic or have ever had an adverse reaction to the medication under normal conditions.
Apples, bananas, and other grab-and-go fruits are a perfect pre-doze treat to maintain healthy blood sugar levels without filling you up too much. Pass on overly sugary, oily, or processed foods. These could dehydrate you or unsettle your stomach while you’re trying to sleep. [4] X Research source
Chances are good that you will have urinated one or more times since deciding to call it a night. Chugging a little H20 will restore vital fluids and help ensure that you don’t dry out.
Consider putting your water in a flask or thermos so you won’t end up with a soggy mess on your hands if you happen to clumsily knock it over.
Ideally, you should situate yourself somewhere that’s close to a bathroom. Count on having to pee at least once during the course of the night. Don’t be embarrassed if you have an accident. It doesn’t mean you’re a not a big boy or girl, it just means that the body has trouble controlling the bladder while inebriated.
It can already be tough to fall and stay asleep when you’re too warm. [8] X Expert Source Alex Dimitriu, MDSleep Specialist Expert Interview. 16 October 2019. That goes double when you’ve been drinking heavily. [9] X Research source Bring an extra blanket to bed with you so you don’t freeze when you begin returning to a normal temperature.
If irritating ambient light is still a problem, an eye mask can keep your peepers off limits once and for all. Close the curtains or leave your eye mask lying on your bed before you go out. You might not remember to do it later when you’re tired and disoriented.
Double-check that you’ve muted or powered down all problem electronics before you crawl into bed. The last thing you want is to have to get up again after you’ve finally gotten cozy. Be careful not to make the mistake of deactivating your alarm with the rest of your devices, unless you’ve got the following morning off from work or school (in which case it may do you some good to sleep in).
If any of your companions are still sober, see if they’d be willing to sleep over at your place or let you crash at theirs. [14] X Research source
Lying face-up or face-down puts you at risk of choking on your own vomit if you throw up in your sleep. As gross as it sounds, it’s definitely no laughing matter.
If you’re already sleep-deprived by the time you start tying one on, you’re guaranteed to feel it more by the time you have a few drinks in you. By the same token, it’s advisable not to put yourself in a position where you’re forced to sacrifice a night of sleep more than about once a week.
A handful of pretzels at the bar won’t cut it, but a greasy cheeseburger or chicken quesadilla can help minimize the damage you do to yourself over the course of a wild night. [18] X Research source If you don’t have an opportunity to sit down to a full meal, go heavy on nutrient-dense snacks like nuts, cheese, and fruit to keep your blood sugar up.
Carry a bottle of water with you so you won’t be at your server or bartender’s mercy for refills. Dehydration is the primary culprit for the achey, disoriented feelings associated with hangovers. [20] X Research source
Other popular caffeine-laden libations to steer clear of include rum and Cokes, Long Island iced teas, SoCo 7s, Irish coffees and car bombs, and Four Loko. [22] X Research source If you have to have a little soda in your spritzer, go with a 7 and 7, which usually calls for caffeine-free lemon lime soda.
