Alcohol poisoning can happen when a person consumes a large amount of alcohol, usually in a short period of time. Their blood alcohol concentration after an episode of binge drinking is considered toxic, or poisonous.
This can be a life-threatening condition and requires urgent medical treatment. Even when someone stops drinking their blood alcohol concentration can continue to rise, making symptoms worse.
Signs of Alcohol Poisoning
- Confusion
- Hypothermia
- Pale skin (may have a bluish tinge)
- Lack of physical coordination
- Unresponsive but conscious
- Passing out
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Abnormal breathing
- Very slow breathing
- Vomiting (with the potential to choke on vomit)
More Serious Symptoms
- Breathing may stop
- Heart attack could occur
- Choke on vomit (could lead to infection or even asphyxiation)
- Severe dehydration (could lead to brain damage)
- Hypothermia
- Hypoglycemia (could lead to seizures)
- Coma and even death
Get Treatment Immediately
With proper care the alcohol poisoning could last for just a few hours. Unfortunately, some cases are so severe that lasting internal damage can occur. If someone you are with experiences these signs or symptoms call for medical help right away and take the following precautions:
- Do not leave them alone
- Keep them awake
- Have them sit up
- If they cannot sit up, roll them onto their side in case of vomiting
- Do not make them walk
- Give water if possible
- Do not feed (as they could choke)
- Do not give coffee (as this can lead to worse dehydration)
Alcohol Poisoning Linked to Addiction
While alcohol poisoning is a serious problem, it does not necessarily mean that an alcohol disorder is present. However, people who struggle with alcohol abuse do have an increased risk of poisoning. There are programs available to help people with an addiction to alcohol. Alcohol rehab can help these people stop drinking and take back their life. Contact us to learn more about our treatment program.
