Can a Hangover Cause a Fever?

Waking up with a pounding headache and nausea is expected after a night of drinking but what if you also have a fever? Can a hangover cause a fever, or is something more serious going on?

In this article, we’ll answer that question by breaking down the difference between typical hangover symptoms and warning signs that something else like alcohol poisoning, infection, or withdrawal may be at play. We'll also explore how alcohol affects your immune system and what you should do if you’re feeling feverish after drinking.

Can a Hangover Cause a Fever?

A typical hangover does not cause a true fever. However, some people may feel warm, flushed, or have chills the morning after drinking heavily, which can mimic the sensation of having a fever.

A fever is generally defined as a body temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, and it's usually a sign that your body is fighting off an infection or inflammation. While alcohol can impact your immune system and cause dehydration both of which can make you feel "off" an actual fever is not a standard hangover symptom.

What Could Be Causing a Fever After Drinking Alcohol?

Several possible reasons might explain why you're experiencing a fever after drinking.

Here are the most common:

1. Alcohol Withdrawal

People who drink heavily and regularly can develop alcohol withdrawal symptoms within hours after their last drink. Fever, sweating, rapid heartbeat, and tremors are potential warning signs. This is a medical emergency in some cases, especially if seizures or confusion occur.

Key signs of withdrawal:

• Fever
• Shaking or tremors
  
• Anxiety or agitation
  
• Hallucinations (in severe cases)

2. Alcohol Intolerance or Allergy

Most commonly seen in East Asian populations which have a genetic condition called alcohol intolerance, which impairs their ability to metabolize alcohol. This can lead to:

• Facial flushing
  
• Elevated temperature
  
• Headaches
  
• Nausea
  

Rarely, an alcohol allergy can trigger an immune system response, leading to fever-like symptoms or even anaphylaxis.

3. Infection or Illness

Sometimes, your hangover coincides with the early stages of an unrelated infection, like the flu or COVID-19. Because alcohol weakens your immune system, you may be more susceptible to getting sick after drinking heavily.

4. Alcohol Poisoning

In more severe cases, alcohol poisoning a potentially life-threatening condition can cause abnormal body temperatures, vomiting, confusion, and slow breathing. This requires immediate medical attention.

Can Alcohol Raise Your Body Temperature?

Yes, alcohol can raise your skin temperature, which might make you feel warm or flushed. But this isn’t the same as having a fever.

Alcohol causes your blood vessels to dilate, increasing blood flow to the skin. This can create a false sense of warmth, even though your core body temperature may actually drop, especially in cold environments.

Read this article about Why Does Alcohol Make You Hot 

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:

• A temperature over 101°F (38.3°C) after drinking
  
• Confusion, disorientation, or hallucinations
  
• Seizures or severe tremors
  
• Rapid heartbeat or trouble breathing

Even if it feels like a hangover, your body could be warning you of something more serious.

How to Recover From a Hangover Safely

Here are a few tips to manage mild hangover symptoms and avoid complications:

Hydrate: Alcohol dehydrates your body, which can worsen symptoms.

Rest: Sleep supports your immune system and metabolic recovery.

Eat a light meal: Replenish lost electrolytes and stabilize blood sugar.

Avoid more alcohol: "Hair of the dog" might worsen symptoms or mask underlying issues.

Monitor your temperature: Use a thermometer to check if you have a true fever.

If symptoms don’t improve in 24–48 hours or if you experience a true fever, consult a healthcare professional.

Hangover Fever vs Sickness

While a hangover may make you feel sick, it shouldn't cause a real fever. If you're feeling feverish after drinking, it could be a sign of alcohol withdrawal, intolerance, infection, or poisoning, all of which require careful monitoring or medical help.
Staying informed, drinking responsibly, and recognizing warning signs can protect your health after a night out.

Hangover FAQs

Can alcohol trigger a fever the next day?

Not directly, but alcohol can weaken your immune system and contribute to dehydration, both of which can make you feel feverish or worsen an underlying infection.

How long does alcohol stay in your system?

Alcohol can be detected in your bloodstream for up to 6 hours and in your urine for 12–24 hours, depending on how much you drank.

Should I be worried if I feel hot after drinking?

Mild warmth or flushing is normal, but a high fever is not. Monitor your symptoms and see a doctor if you're unsure.

Disclaimer:
This content is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.