Alcohol poisoning and a hangover can have some overlapping symptoms, but there are some key differences.

A hangover usually occurs several hours after you stop drinking and is typically accompanied by a headache, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, fatigue, and body aches. These symptoms can last for several hours or even a day.

Alcohol poisoning, on the other hand, is a medical emergency that occurs when you consume a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time. Symptoms may include confusion, vomiting, seizures, slow or irregular breathing, blue-tinged skin or pale skin, and loss of consciousness. Alcohol poisoning can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of alcohol poisoning, it’s important to seek medical help right away. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a hangover, you can typically treat them with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers.