These effects contribute to day-after dread, even if you dont have an anxiety disorder diagnosis.
It can last 24 hours or longer.
Enzymes, mainly in the liver, metabolize (break down) alcohol, releasing a poisonous byproduct calledacetaldehyde.
*Yue_ / Getty Images*
Acetaldehyde contributes to inflammation in the liver, pancreas, intestinal tract, and brain, among other organs.
These physical symptoms can contribute to the feelings of anxiety and panic that can arise the morning after.
Brain Changes
Hangover anxiety can also arise as the brain adjusts to the mental effects of alcohol.
It also inhibits another neurotransmitter, glutamate, which regulates mood.
As the alcohol is metabolized and wears off, your brain works to restore chemical balance.
It lowers levels of GABAmaking you feel less calmand boosts glutamate, which increases anxiety.
Alcohol dramatically impacts the quality and quantity of rest you get, further contributing to hangover symptoms.
These deficits can contribute to the mood symptoms of hangovers, like anxiety and depression.
Dehydration
Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it boosts the output of urine.
Drinking alcohol triggers the hormonevasopressin, which regulates your bodys water and salt levels.
The resulting fluid loss can cause mild dehydration (not enough fluid in the body) the next day.
Dehydration contributes to headaches, body aches, dry mouth, and fatigue associated with hangovers.
It also causes darker urine, decreased sweating or urinating, dry skin, fatigue, and dizziness.
While dehydration does not cause anxiety, these conditions are related.
Poor Food Choices
Science is looking into why some crave late-night snacks after drinking.
Alcohol intoxication impacts self-control, making you more impulsive.
Anxiety related to poor food choices especially arise if youre trying to improve your diet or make lifestyle changes.
As a result, some experience anxiety as they look back on the events of the night before.
An immune response causes alcohol allergy, whereas the digestive system is responsible for alcohol intolerance.
Should You Quit Drinking If You Have an Anxiety Disorder?
Drinking alcohol is not a healthy way to cope with anxiety.
Alcohol withdrawal can cause severe and sometimes life-threatening symptoms.
A healthcare provider can help you enter recovery safely.
Theres no one way to do it.
You may need to experiment and see what works for you.
It can lead to dangerous health effects and make symptoms worse.
Quitting alcohol can prevent anxiety and give you the space to develop healthy means of managing your condition.
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