FACTS
Alcohol depresses the nerves which control the involuntary actions such as breathing and the gag reflex which is the one that stops you from choking. A fatal amount of alcohol can actually stop these from functioning. A persons blood concentration can continue to rise even when the victim is passed out. Alcohol in the stomach and intestine will continue to enter the bloodstream and circulate the body even when a person has stopped drinking. It is therefore dangerous to think the person will be fine by just sleeping it off.
Critical Signs for Alcohol Poisoning
- Mental confusion, stupor, coma, or person cannot be roused.
- Vomiting.
- Seizures.
- Slow breathing (fewer than eight breaths per minute).
- Irregular breathing (10 seconds or more between breaths).
- Hypothermia (low body temperature), bluish skin color, paleness.
What Should I Do If I Suspect Someone Has Alcohol Poisoning?
- Know the danger signals.
- Do not wait for all symptoms to be present.
- Be aware that a person who has passed out may die.
- If there is any suspicion of an alcohol overdose, call 911 for help. Don't try to guess the level of drunkenness.
What Can Happen to Someone With Alcohol Poisoning That Goes Untreated?
- Victim chokes on his or her own vomit.
- Breathing slows, becomes irregular, or stops.
- Heart beats irregularly or stops.
- Hypothermia (low body temperature).
- Hypoglycemia (too little blood sugar) leads to seizures.
- Untreated severe dehydration from vomiting can cause seizures, permanent brain damage, or death.
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