Have you or a loved one had alcohol-related complications after a night out drinking? It might have been alcohol poisoning. Here, we explain everything you need to know about it and what you can do to help someone with alcohol poisoning.
What Is Alcohol Poisoning?
Alcohol poisoning occurs when you consume alcohol quicker than your body can process. It is a severe condition that could cause death in extreme situations. Knowing a few facts about alcohol poisoning could help save a life.
Alcohol is a depressant and can slow a person’s breathing and heart rate. The liver works to prevent toxins in alcohol from getting into the bloodstream. However, when the intake rate is higher than the liver can handle, the result is alcohol poisoning.
Household products with alcohol can also cause alcohol poisoning. When you suspect someone might have alcohol poisoning, promptly seek medical help.
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Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning
The following are some signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning that might come across as being mild:
- An individual might have a noticeable alcohol smell on the breath
- Disorientation
- Slurred speech
- Lack of coordination and stumbling
- Pale skin
However, there are more severe signs and symptoms, including:
- Serious confusion
- Inability to remain awake
- Hypothermia
- Blue, pale skin
- Vomiting
- Convulsions
- Slow breaths
- Slowed heartbeat
- Slowed gag reflux
Complications of Alcohol Poisoning
Alcohol poisoning can result in one or a few complications that have significant adverse effects. One can choke on their vomit and have difficulty breathing. Dehydration and hypothermia are also complications reported during alcohol poisoning. Others include brain damage, heart failure, and death.
What To Do in Case of Alcohol Poisoning
Call for emergency medical attention as soon as you suspect alcohol poisoning. Do not leave the person alone. Try keeping them seated upright and warm using a blanket or a jacket.
If they are conscious, make them sip some water.
If the person has passed out, lay them on the side (recovering position) to prevent them from choking on their vomit. Try to keep them awake. When the emergency personnel arrives, detail how much the person drank and when they did it.
What Not To Do
Do not give or let them have more alcohol. Also, do not give them beverages like coffee. Caffeine-containing drinks can dehydrate people going through alcohol poisoning. Do not make them take a cold shower or pour cold water on them. Most importantly, do not make them vomit.
Treatment for Alcohol Poisoning
Doctors will treat you with IV fluids to rehydrate you at the hospital. They may also give you supplemental oxygen if you’re experiencing breathing difficulty. If there’s a lot of alcohol in your stomach, they can “pump” it out and flush your stomach of alcohol toxins. They also get rid of alcohol toxins in the blood.
How Do You Prevent Alcohol Poisoning?
Practice moderation when taking alcohol. It is also vital to take alcohol after you have taken a meal. Make sure you are not on medication that is contraindicated for alcohol. It also helps to have water in between alcoholic drinks.
If you are underage, avoid alcohol games. However, when alcohol poisoning occurs, do not be afraid to ask for help. Not asking for help can lead to more severe consequences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, alcohol poisoning is a severe condition that can be life-threatening. It’s essential to know the signs and symptoms and take action immediately when you suspect someone has alcohol poisoning. Prompt medical attention can save a life. Prevention is better than cure and can do a lot to avoid alcohol poisoning. Exercise moderation when taking alcohol, make sure you’ve had a meal, and take water in between drinks. It’s vital to educate ourselves and others on the risks associated with alcohol consumption and take the necessary precautions to avoid alcohol poisoning.
