An average of six Americans die every single day as a result of alcohol poisoning. In fact, alcohol is a toxic substance, and consuming too much of it can lead to disastrous results. Fortunately, it’s possible to help those who are experiencing alcohol poisoning. Get to know common alcohol poisoning symptoms so that you can quickly respond in a potential emergency situation.
What is Alcohol Poisoning?
In fact, alcohol poisoning is a medical condition that results from consuming too much alcohol too quickly. When only moderate amounts of alcohol are consumed, the body can filter the substance effectively through the liver. However, alcohol poisoning can occur when more alcohol is taken into the body than the liver can filter in a timely fashion.
Blue or Pale Skin
One possible of the possible alcohol poisoning symptoms is seeing blue skin. Moreover, this happens because the person in question isn’t getting enough oxygen in the bloodstream. Skin color can change from pink or brown to very pale or even having a blue tint. For example, around the lips and the nail beds are often the first places that you’ll notice this change of color.
Once this happens, it has become an emergency situation. If you haven’t already taken action, now is the time to do something.
Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning
Slow or Irregular Breathing
Alcohol is a depressant. Therefore, among other things, it can start to slow down some of the natural processes and functions of the human body. One area that can be greatly impacted by alcohol is the respiratory system.
When alcohol poisoning occurs, it can slow down breathing. Some people experiencing alcohol poisoning symptoms will have a hard time inhaling and exhaling. Breathing can be labored, or it can be slow. Any signs of impacted breathing are serious concerns that need to be addressed right away.
Seizures
One potential of the potential alcohol poisoning symptoms is a seizure. When there is simply too much alcohol in the body, processing and metabolizing it all becomes nearly impossible. In addition, the body might respond by having a seizure. Seizures can create another wide range of side effects, and they put the individual at great risk for further health problems.
Vomiting
One way the body responds to alcohol poisoning is by trying to get rid of it as quickly as possible. Often, that means vomiting. Additionally, this is the body’s last line of defense when there is too much alcohol in the system.
While vomiting might seem like a good thing if it rids the body of alcohol, it can also be problematic. Some individuals can choke on their own vomit, which is a leading cause of alcohol poisoning fatalities.
Losing Consciousness
Another of the many possible alcohol poisoning symptoms to watch out for is losing consciousness. Once this happens, an individual is at greater risk. Specifically, an unconscious person always needs immediate medical attention.
Severe Dehydration
Consuming large amounts of alcohol can cause extreme dehydration. Furthermore, this can negatively impact vital organs of the body. Dehydration also results in an increase in physical discomfort.
Low Body Temperature
If someone is experiencing alcohol poisoning, their body temperature may drop far too low. As a result, oxygen and a proper blood supply may not be getting to the different areas of the body. Therefore, the person’s skin may feel cool and clammy to the touch.
Irregular Heart Rate
The depressant effects of a large amount of alcohol can also affect the heart. As a result, the heart can beat too fast or too slow in some cases. Irregular heart rates can make a person feel very jittery and uncomfortable.
Low Blood Sugar
A person experiencing alcohol poisoning may also be faced with low blood sugar levels. Low blood sugar levels can result in trembling, sweating, nausea, and other issues. If the blood sugar level drops too low, the person may even lose consciousness.
Responding to Alcohol Poisoning Symptoms
If you see that someone is struggling with alcohol poisoning symptoms, call 911 right away. If you’re trained to offer CPR, that might also be necessary. Once a person is medically stable, they will need alcoholism treatment. For example, at Crest View Recovery Center, addiction treatment services can include all of the following:
- Dialectical behavioral therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy
- Group therapy for addiction
- Fitness therapy
- Reality-based therapy
- Dual diagnosis treatment support as needed
Alcoholism can lead to countless problems, just one of which is an increased risk for alcohol poisoning. To fight back against addiction, consider rehab at Crest View Recovery Center in Asheville, North Carolina. Call 866-327-2505 to learn more about rehab options.
