The Characteristics of Alcohol Poisoning

If you are going to take part in an activity that involves alcohol, you should know the symptoms of alcohol poisoning. Knowing the signs that someone has had too much to drink for their own safety is part of the responsibility that comes with drinking. Responsibly enjoying a drink or two with friends can be an enjoyable experience. People who don't know when to stop or how to control their drinking pose a threat to themselves and others. By learning the symptoms of alcohol poisoning and sharing them with others, you can watch out for each other and hopefully prevent a life-threatening situation.

Mental Confusion

• The first sign that someone has had a little too much to drink is mental confusion. Alcohol loosens our inhibitions and relaxes us a little bit. However, if someone is talking incoherently, or not talking at all and seems to be in a daze, don't allow them to drink any more.

Vomiting

• When a person starts to vomit, their body is using its own defense mechanism to reject something unhealthy from the body. You may think that vomiting is good, as it expels some of the alcohol from the body. This is untrue. Vomiting can cause choking and also further dehydrates the body.

Seizures

• If a person starts seizing, it is time to call 911 immediately. This is a definite sign of alcohol poisoning.

Breathing

• Alcohol poisoning can cause slow breathing. Check the person's breathing by counting their breaths for a minute. If they are taking less than eight breaths a minute, this is a sign of alcohol poisoning. The person's breathing may be irregular too. Listen for a pattern in the breathing. If it is erratic and doesn't follow a steady rhythm, the person could be in trouble.

Hypothermia

• Does the person feel cold and clammy? Does the skin look pale or bluish? Hypothermia can set in with alcohol poisoning. The body temperature drops, causing a dangerous situation for the victim.

Unconsciousness

• Don't assume that a person who has passed out is just "sleeping it off." Passing out from alcohol poisoning is a very dangerous situation. The person risks choking on their own vomit or stopping breathing. If someone passes out, they should be closely monitored and should receive medical attention.

Options

• It is hard to judge someone else's level of intoxication and you may be wary about calling for help. You may worry about the person being mad at you or embarrassed. If you are under the legal drinking age, you may worry about getting that person into trouble. If you are unsure as to whether the person needs medical attention, call [phone] and you will be connected with a local poison control center. Be honest and detailed about the situation, and the person on the other line will tell you if you need to get medical attention. This service is confidential. Always err on the side of caution.