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Signs & Symptoms of Alcohol Use

Signs of alcohol use can vary from person to person, depending on weight, alcohol tolerance, amount ingested and the time period of drinking. It's important to look out for these signs and symptoms when in a potentially dangerous situation. If there is a car involved, do not let someone get behind the wheel if they display the symptoms of alcohol use. If you notice these signs in an underage individual, talk to them about drinking.

  1. Mobility and Speech

    • Alcohol use decreases coordination, and you might notice that someone under the influence sways or has trouble finding their footing. In extreme cases, the person may fall over or be unable to complete a simple task. Another classic sign of alcohol use is slurred speech.

    Smell

    • If you suspect someone has been drinking, try to catch a whiff of her breath. Alcohol will linger on the palate, and you might be able to make out the distinct odor of wine, spirits, or beer.

    Vision

    • Alcohol impairs vision, which is why it is especially dangerous to get behind the wheel after drinking. The drinker's vision can be blurred, and they will have trouble making out objects distinctly. Light may also appear especially bright and cause headaches to someone who has been drinking heavily.

    Urinating

    • Alcohol increases the rate of urination as the body tries to work it out of the system. The colloquial term "break the seal" actually is true. Excessive alcohol intake results in frequent urination. This purge of fluids also contributes to dehydration, which is a key factor in hangovers.

    Behavior

    • People under the influence of alcohol are prone to act without inhibition, experience the extremes of emotion in a short period of time and treat loved ones or even strangers with disrespect for no apparent reason. The mood swings associated with alcohol use can be damaging to personal relationships and can lead to dangerous situations if a drinker provokes a unknown individual without reason.

    Severe Symptoms

    • Drinking too much alcohol in a single sitting can cause nausea and vomiting. A drinker who's overdone it may claim that the room is spinning. The alcoholic episode may climax in a black out, in which the drinker loses memories of their actions. The drinker may pass out, and it might be hard to rouse him from his slumber. Passing out in such a state is dangerous, as if you vomit in your sleep it creates a choking hazard.

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