5 Signs of Alcohol Poisoning

Alcohol is one of the most commonly consumed, easily accessible mind-altering chemicals available to society. While drinking a glass of wine or having the occasional few beers is not likely to cause anyone harm, too much alcohol consumption can lead to a damaging health emergency known as alcohol poisoning. Sadly, signs of alcohol poisoning are often missed because they are easily associated with being simply intoxicated. People who could benefit from alcohol rehab Jacksonville FL are often most at risk.

A Note About Binge Drinking and Alcohol-Related Deaths

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found in 2015 that 26.9 percent of people over 18 had engaged in binge drinking during the prior month. Binge drinking is defined as four drinks within two hours as a woman or five drinks as a man within two hours. This form of alcohol consumption drives the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) up to 0.08 g/dL or more rapidly.

Unfortunately, binge drinking can lead to alcohol poisoning, and alcohol poisoning can lead to death. 88,000 people in the United States die every year due to alcohol-related causes, which includes severe cases of poisoning.

Signs of Alcohol Poisoning Explained

The signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning should be well-known by anyone who participates in heavy alcohol consumption or binge drinking. Symptoms are similar in people of all ages, and they should spur reactions by bystanders to seek immediate medical attention. The Mayo Clinic provides a good overview of signs of alcohol poisoning.

1. Confusion or Disorientation Is a Primary Sign of Alcohol Poisoning

Most people do get a bit disoriented when they drink too much. However, someone who is suffering from alcohol poisoning may become extremely disoriented and confused. They may:

• Not know where they are
• Be unable to answer simple questions
• Become agitated because they are confused

If you are with someone who has consumed a lot of alcohol and they portray these symptoms, it is best to get to a hospital right away.

2. Slow Breathing Can Indicate Alcohol Poisoning

Taking less than eight breaths per minute is considered slow or shallow breathing. This slower breathing is a sign of respiratory distress, and it should not go unnoticed. Likewise, irregular breathing is a sign of alcohol poisoning as well. For example, if there are more than 10 seconds between breaths, this could be considered irregular breathing.

3. Hypothermia (Low Body Temperature) Me Be a Sign of Alcohol Poisoning

The typical body temperature of 98.6 degrees on average is considered the stable temperature for organs to function properly. If the body temperature dips lower than this point, certain systems can start to dysfunction or shut down. Signs of hypothermia can include shivering, skin that feels cool to the touch, and an inability to get warm.

4. Complete Unconsciousness May Be an Alcohol Poisoning Symptom

Drinking until you pass out is a common thing for people who drink frequently to do. However, someone who has consumed too much alcohol may actually lose consciousness completely. The difference between regular passing out and falling asleep and losing consciousness is the person will not be roused or awakened no matter how hard you try.

5. Seizures Are Definitive Signs of Alcohol Poisoning

One of the most severe symptoms of alcohol poisoning are seizures. Seizures occur because of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can be brought on by a BAC that is far higher than what is safe or normal. Seizures are characterized by uncontrollable shakes and loss of consciousness, and they can come on suddenly without a lot of warning that something is about to occur.

Reach Out to Beaches Recovery for Help for an Alcohol Abuse Problem

There is no reason to allow addiction to alcohol to continue putting your health or life at risk. Quality alcohol recovery programs can help you get back to living. If you or a loved one is struggling to overcome an alcohol addiction, contact Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, FL at  866.605.0532 for advice from professionals who know how to help.