A young woman’s story highlights a surprising early warning sign of cancer: extreme reactions to alcohol. At just 19 years old, Poppy Beguely began suffering from severe hangovers and vomiting after only two drinks. While she initially blamed her social life, these symptoms were actually her body’s way of signaling a serious illness.
In addition to the severe hangovers, Poppy developed facial rashes and painful sores. She eventually began coughing up blood. She was hospitalized several times but was initially misdiagnosed with a minor blood condition. It took months of persistent symptoms before a biopsy of a lump on her neck revealed the truth.
Doctors eventually diagnosed her with stage three Hodgkin’s lymphoma. This is a type of cancer that attacks the lymph system. Interestingly, pain or illness after drinking alcohol is a known, though less common, symptom of this specific cancer.
Treatment was not easy. Poppy underwent four months of chemotherapy and suffered a rare reaction to a blood transfusion. At one point, her weight dropped dangerously low, and she required a feeding tube. She described this time as the only moment she truly feared for her life.
Fortunately, the treatment was successful, and Poppy is now in remission. She says the experience changed her outlook on life, teaching her never to take small joys for granted. Her story serves as a powerful reminder to listen to your body and seek help when something feels wrong.