Dizziness after a hangover: what to know

Alcohol can increase fluid loss and leave you unsteady, nauseated, tired, or sensitive to movement. Skipping food may contribute to low blood sugar, while vomiting can worsen fluid and salt loss. The room may seem to spin, or you may feel faint when standing. These effects should gradually improve as your body recovers; persistent dizziness may instead point to another issue such as Dehydration, Hypoglycaemia, or an inner-ear balance disorder.

Rest in a cool, safe place and stand up slowly. Sip water or an oral rehydration drink, and eat a small meal or snack if you can keep food down. Avoid more alcohol, driving, strenuous exercise, and medicines that make you sleepy. Do not take paracetamol or other medicines without checking the label and considering how much you drank. If vomiting prevents fluids, contact a clinician for advice.

Call emergency services for difficulty waking, confusion, slow or irregular breathing, a seizure, blue or very pale skin, collapse, or suspected alcohol poisoning. Seek prompt care for fainting, severe abdominal pain, blood in vomit, repeated vomiting, chest pain, or dizziness that is worsening rather than easing. Someone who is difficult to wake should be placed on their side and monitored while help is arranged.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest dehydration or low blood sugar, whether you need an examination, and which pain or nausea medicines are suitable. Share what you drank, when symptoms began, whether you vomited, and any regular medicines or health conditions.