If you aren’t careful, a night of so-called carefree drinking can lead to life-threatening physical conditions. Alcohol poisoning happens when an individual consumes too much alcohol during a short period. People can suffer from the illness regardless of their weight, gender, or alcohol tolerance level. Reaching a state where you experience alcohol poisoning can be a sign that you have a problem with drinking. That’s where treatment at a rehab facility like Bayview Recovery Center might be beneficial. For alcohol addiction treatment, contact our team today at 855.478.3650.
Why Alcohol Poisoning is Dangerous
The more you drink, the higher your blood alcohol level (BAC) becomes. An extremely high BAC can start affecting your physical and mental functions. The effects of alcohol poisoning can last even after you quit drinking for the night. That’s because a person’s BAC level can continue rising up to 40 minutes after their last drink.
While factors like age, gender, and weight can play a role in a person’s limits for alcohol consumption, it’s impossible to tell how much every individual can ingest before experiencing alcohol poisoning. People often end up with the issue after a night of binge drinking. The more you drink during a short period, the greater your chances are of having harmful consequences in the end.
Most states consider a person to be intoxicated if they have a BAC of at least .08. Many people find their abilities affected once they reach a BAC between .10 and .12. Higher BAC levels can lead to excessive vomiting, blacking out, suddenly passing out, and difficulties breathing.
It is possible to die from the effects of alcohol poisoning. Anyone who finds themselves reaching this state frequently may have a problem with alcohol abuse.
Alcohol Poisoning Symptoms
Many signs indicate that you or a loved one may be experiencing alcohol poisoning. You must learn to recognize the symptoms when they appear so you can receive medical treatment as quickly as possible. The earlier you get help, the greater your chances are of recovering without life-threatening complications.
Common signs that someone may have alcohol poisoning include:
- Shallow or irregular breathing
- Dropping body temperature
- Unresponsive to commands
- Nausea and vomiting
- Clammy, pale, or blue-tinged skin
- Signs of confusion
- Seizures
Your life could be in danger if you do not get help in time. You should call 911 immediately to ensure you get treatment in time.
Potential for Alcohol Poisoning
Anyone can become a victim of alcohol poisoning. However, risk factors are higher for specific demographic groups. College students, feeling empowered by their first taste of freedom, may drink beyond their limits at social events. There is also often peer pressure to take part in drinking games and other alcohol-related activities.
Another group often found to experience alcohol poisoning is middle-aged men. Excessive drinking habits from youth can lead to alcohol abuse to manage the stresses of everyday life. Depression and other mental health disorders can also cause a person to drink to the point of getting alcohol poisoning.
Getting Help With Excessive Drinking
If you or a loved are worried about alcohol abuse or have experienced alcohol poisoning in the recent past, it may be time to consider getting treatment. Bayview Recovery Center offers help to Washington residents who need help breaking free of an alcohol use disorder.
Our serene, relaxing atmosphere helps clients focus on getting well and maintaining a long-lasting recovery. Some of the many treatment options clients can choose from include:
Call Bayview Recovery Center today at 855.478.3650. We can help you take the first steps toward living a life free of alcohol abuse.
Dr. Dave Cundiff, MD, MPH (Medical Reviewer)
