Excessive salivation (often called water brash) and mid-abdominal pain after heavy drinking are classic signs of alcohol-induced irritation of the digestive tract, such as gastritis or acid reflux. Immediate relief requires completely stopping alcohol and addressing symptoms with over-the-counter medications and bland foods.
Do the following:
Abstain from alcohol: Give your stomach lining time to heal by stopping alcohol consumption completely.
Hydrate gently: Sip on water, clear broths, or electrolyte-rich drinks to rehydrate after excess intake.
Eat bland foods: Stick to small, frequent meals of complex carbohydrates like plain toast, crackers, or bananas to stabilize blood
sugar and reduce nausea.
Over-The-Counter (OTC) Relief
Antacids: Medications like Tums or Alka-Seltzer can quickly neutralize excess stomach acid and soothe irritation.
Acid Reducers (H2 Blockers): Drugs like Pepcid (famotidine) can decrease the amount of acid your stomach produces.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Medications like Prilosec (omeprazole) or Nexium can block acid production to promote healing.
Note: Avoid taking NSAIDs (like aspirin, ibuprofen, or Naproxen) for the abdominal pain, as they further irritate the stomach lining. Use acetaminophen (Tylenol) sparingly, as it is processed by the
liver.
Mid-abdominal pain accompanied by excess saliva can sometimes signal more severe conditions, such as acute pancreatitis or stomach ulcers. Seek urgent medical care if you experience:
Pain that is severe, sudden, or spreads to your back
Repeated vomiting or an inability to keep fluids down
Fever, weakness, or dizziness
Vomit that looks like coffee grounds or bloody/tarry stools