According to several studies and research that has been conducted on the causes, signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning, there are more than 50,000 cases of reported alcohol poisoning each year in the United States and there is approximately one death per week as a result of alcohol poisoning. Alcohol poisoning, also referred to alcohol overdose, is a life threatening condition that occurs when someone consumes excessive amounts of alcohol. When the amount of alcohol consumed increases beyond the normal level of blood in the human body, the body cannot metabolize the alcohol as quick as it is being ingested, resulting in a variety of unpleasant symptoms and the serious consequence of alcohol poisoning. The alcohol poisoning symptoms begin to manifest as a way of showing the body that it has reached its peak in alcohol and the system is no longer capable of handling it. Understanding the causes of toxic reactions and the symptoms of alcohol poisoning, as well as the responsible approaches to avoiding the situation, may help prevent the fatal results of alcohol poisoning. Here is a video from expert David Thomas on the subject of alcohol poisoning.
Binge Drinking and Alcohol Overdose
The symptoms of alcohol poisoning commonly occur as a result of binge drinking. Binge drinking is typically described as a male drinking five or more drinks and a female drinking four or more drinks, in a rapid succession. This type of drinking frequently occurs with young adults at a social function such as a college party. Binge drinking is more prevalent among teenagers and young adults; however, it can be a problem at any age. Although there are usually signs of alcohol poisoning, it is not uncommon for someone who is a binge drinker to pass out and immediately slip into a coma, have extreme heart palpitations or in extreme cases, die without exhibiting any prior symptoms of possible alcohol poisoning.
Causes and Risks of Alcohol Poisoning
Although binge drinking is one of the leading causes of alcohol poisoning, there are several factors that may lead to the symptoms of alcohol poisoning such as accidentally or purposely consuming household products such as mouthwash. Other factors include the rate of alcohol consumption, tolerance level and combining alcohol with prescriptions or street drugs as well as:
- Age – Teenagers and young adults are more prone to alcohol poisoning due to binge drinking, however, studies show that the majority of alcohol poisoning related deaths occur in people aged 35 to 54.
- Size -People who are thin and small in stature absorb alcohol at a much quicker rate, which makes them more susceptible to the symptoms of alcohol poisoning.
- Type of alcohol being consumed – there are several types of alcohol such as Methanol which is typically found in paint, solvents and antifreeze. Isopropyl alcohol which is a common ingredient in rubbing alcohol and Ethanol, the alcohol found in beer, liquors and all other alcoholic beverages as well as mouthwash and a few medications. Alcoholic beverages vary in the length of time it takes for the liver to process, for example a 12 ounce beer typically takes one hour for the liver to process, while an ounce of 80 proof whiskey may take as much as an hour and half to two hours to be processed.
- Combinations with medications or drugs – The signs of alcohol poisoning are significantly increased when combined with prescription medications and/or street drugs.
Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning
Although there are significant symptoms of alcohol poisoning, it is important to keep in mind that everyone may not present the signs and symptoms in the same order. Alcohol is a depressant and it will have an effect on the part of the nervous system that controls involuntary actions including gag reflexes and breathing. Vomiting is typically one of the first signs of alcohol poisoning, however, it is possible for someone to pass out and vomit while unconscious. The following are the typical order in which alcohol poisoning symptoms occur:
- Feeling ill, nausea and vomiting. Alcohol is irritating to the stomach, so vomiting is common; however, alcohol poisoning may cause the person to have violent and drawn-out episodes of vomiting. If they want to lie down, it is important that the head is turned to the side in order to prevent choking.
- Mental confusion and/or stupor. Someone with alcohol poisoning may become extremely dizzy, disoriented and confused. They may have slurred speech, difficulties making eye contact and/or display erratic behavior.
- Seizures. A seizure from alcohol poisoning is due to the intoxication of the brain cells and diminishing reflexes of the body, which result in muscular spasms. If the person is shaking uncontrollably, it is vital that safety be the primary concern. If they are lying on their back, roll the person on their side in case of vomiting during the seizure to prevent choking.
- Irregular and slowed breathing. Alcohol is a depressant to the central nervous system, which can cause someone to stop breathing. Slow breathing, less than eight breaths per minute is a sign of alcohol poisoning. A sign of irregular breathing is when there are gaps lasting ten seconds or longer between breaths.
- Hypothermia. Hypothermia, low body temperature is an extremely dangerous symptom of alcohol poisoning. The skin may feel clammy or cold to the touch. The skin will become pale or blue-tinged. When the body temperature has a dramatic drop, it may lead to cardiac arrest.
- Unconsciousness or passing out and cannot be roused. It is important to remember that even after the person has stopped drinking, the alcohol level in the bloodstream continues to rise. The absence of reflexes while unconscious depresses the gag reflex and increases the risk of choking on vomit. It is common to think that if someone passes out, they will sleep off the effects of the alcohol; however, this instead can lead to a coma and eventually death. The loss of consciousness is the most critical alcohol poisoning symptom as the persons system has begun to shut down due to the high levels of alcohol.
Alcohol Poisoning Treatment
Myths such as drinking black coffee, taking a cold shower or sleeping it off, are just that, myths. These suggestions do not prevent or halt the symptoms of alcohol poisoning. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning, as medical treatment is needed as soon as possible. Treatment for alcohol poisoning basically depends on the stage of advancement. Vomiting is the first step because it will help to purge the alcohol from the system. Medical personnel will typically pump the stomach or if the person is awake, they may be given a drinkable charcoal treatment. Typically when someone is admitted to the hospital for alcohol poisoning, they are given oxygen therapy, fluids through an IV to prevent dehydration, given glucose and thiamin, they are monitored for breathing difficulties and/or choking. Alcohol poisoning is an extremely serious condition. When treatment is not immediately administered, the person can suffer with severe consequences including irreversible brain damage and in the worst case scenario, death.