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Signs of Alcohol Poisoning

Acute alcohol intoxication occurs when a person consumes a large quantity of alcohol at a rate the body is not able to metabolize efficiently. When a person ingests an immense amount of alcohol in a short time frame, the central nervous system is attacked by the depressant substance. Many adverse side effects follow the manipulation of the CNS, like a lack of motor control and memory loss.

7 Minute Read | Published Sep 27 2023 | Updated Feb 29 2024 Expert Verified
Emma Collins
Written by
Edwin Gomez
Reviewed by
Emma Collins
Written by
Edwin Gomez
Reviewed by

In addition, other physical and psychological factors are negatively impacted, leading to long-term health issues. In order to avoid potential health risks or organ failures, it is vital to be aware of the signs of alcohol poisoning so one can seek immediate medical attention. A person should receive treatment at an alcohol rehab as soon as possible, after undergoing the procedure that follows the poisoning.

The Signs of Acute Alcohol Intoxication

Numerous causes contribute to why a person chooses to use alcohol to cope, but sometimes it takes one night out to mistakenly drink an abundant amount, forcing the body to shut down. It is important to be aware of the levels of intoxication one may be experiencing or observing. Mild intoxication (blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.01 and 0.1 percent) includes feelings of relaxation, a slight decrease in attentiveness, flushing or redness in the face, and overconfidence.

Once a person reaches past the point of feeling “tipsy,” the state of the stimulant the alcohol portrays begins to create depressing consequences on the body. Moderate intoxication includes slurred speech, impaired judgment or attention deficit, confusion, and uncontrolled eye movements. Also, nausea and vomiting are likely, as well as dizziness and temporary memory loss.

Severe acute alcohol intoxication (BAC greater than 0.3 percent) means a person is capable of experiencing hallucinations, having extreme difficulty concentrating or communicating, exposure to potential hypothermia, and of course, a loss of consciousness or a coma. A person who is having intense chest pains, problems breathing, or uncontrollable vomiting are signs, symptoms, and warnings of alcohol poisoning.

How Long Does Alcohol Poisoning Last?

Recovering from alcohol poisoning depends on the person’s gender, weight, consumption, genetics, and other biological factors. Substance poisoning is typically not like the morning after alcohol symptoms which may involve a hangover. Coffee or sleeping it off won’t help someone suffering from severe alcohol intoxication symptoms. Although throwing up from alcohol is guaranteed, so are medical procedures in this case.

Alcohol is a toxin to the body, especially if someone drinks an abundant amount. Therefore, a person may not remember their stomach getting pumped from alcohol. Gastric lavage is the process of cleaning out the toxins in the stomach. The gut is damaged from excessive alcohol drinking and may be prone to ulcers and intense stomach pains if the stomach is not pumped for alcohol.

A person who suffered acute alcohol intoxication should seek alcohol addiction recovery, especially if desiring to drink soon after receiving immediate medical attention from alcohol poisoning. Specialists can safely get you through the withdrawal process and design a treatment plan that prevents relapsing. Addiction and the recovery journey are different for everyone but there are significant health benefits that follow treatment.

Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction

Understanding alcohol addiction disorder is essential so people can avoid serious health risks or potential alcohol poisoning. All types of liquor can cause addiction, from hard seltzers to beer to the variety of spirits that exist. Here are some symptoms of alcohol addiction:

  • Mood swings
  • Intense cravings for alcohol
  • Increased tolerance for alcohol
  • Behavior change/defensive behavior
  • Less motivation or interest to pursue hobbies
  • Not desiring to be social or attend social events
  • Neglecting responsibilities such as with family or work
  • Drinking in dangerous situations like while being behind the wheel

Alcohol is a psychoactive substance, so the effects on the body and mind can be immediately drastic. If a person is dealing with addiction, acute alcohol intoxication changes are increased and possible overdose or death is a serious concern.

Alcohol Addiction Treatment at Better Addiction Care

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, Better Addiction Care offers a successful alcoholism recovery treatment program. Our experienced medical staff will help you through the withdrawal process and help you practice new skills to apply throughout everyday life to avoid relapse.

Please do not hesitate to contact a team member today at (800) 429-7690 and ask about our inpatient alcohol rehab to get started today!

Resources

bullet Mayo Clinic
"Alcohol Poisoning. (2021)"
Retrieved on April 19, 2022
bullet Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
"Alcohol Poisoning: Signs and Symptoms (2022)"
Retrieved on April 19, 2022
bullet American Addiction Centers
"Recognizing Alcohol Poisoning (2022)"
Retrieved on April 19, 2022
bullet WebMD
"Alcohol Overdose: What to Do (2021)"
Retrieved on April 19, 2022
bullet Verywell Mind
"Signs of Alcohol Poisoning (2022)"
Retrieved on April 19, 2022
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