Alcohol Poisoning: Signs, Symptoms & Treatments

In the United States, an average of six people per day die from alcohol poisoning. 

Alcohol poisoning is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when a person consumes a toxic amount of alcohol, usually in a short period. 

This condition can lead to serious health complications, including respiratory failure, seizures, and even death. Understanding alcohol poisoning, its signs, symptoms, and appropriate treatments is crucial in preventing severe complications. 

What Is Alcohol Poisoning?

Alcohol poisoning occurs when there is too much alcohol in the bloodstream, leading to the reduction of essential bodily functions, such as breathing, heart rate, and temperature regulation. 

Is Alcohol Poison?

It’s no surprise that alcohol is a toxin, which in small amounts, the liver can process. But the liver can only handle a certain amount of alcohol per hour, typically about one standard drink. 

When someone consumes large quantities of alcohol rapidly, their liver is unable to metabolize it efficiently, leading to a toxic buildup in the blood.

How Do You Get Alcohol Poisoning?

Binge drinking is the most common cause of alcohol poisoning. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) define binge drinking as:

• Five or more drinks in two hours for men
• Four or more drinks in two hours for women

Alcohol poisoning can impact anyone, not just those with alcohol use disorder (AUD). 

However, heavy drinking over time can also increase the risk of alcohol poisoning, especially in individuals with a high tolerance who may underestimate their level of intoxication; alcohol impairs judgment. 

Signs & Symptoms Of Alcohol Poisoning

Recognizing alcohol poisoning symptoms is crucial in providing timely help. Some symptoms may appear mild at first but can quickly escalate into a life-threatening condition.

Confusion & Disorientation

One of the earliest symptoms of alcohol poisoning is confusion. The person may have difficulty speaking, staying awake, or understanding their surroundings.

Vomiting

Excessive alcohol consumption irritates the stomach lining, leading to nausea and vomiting. This is dangerous because an intoxicated person can choke on their vomit if their gag reflex is impaired.

Seizures

Alcohol can cause seizures by affecting the brain’s electrical activity. A seizure can be a sign of severe alcohol poisoning and requires immediate medical attention.

Slow Or Irregular Breathing

A person with alcohol poisoning may breathe fewer than eight times per minute or have gaps of more than 10 seconds between breaths. This is a critical sign that the brain is being deprived of oxygen.

Low Body Temperature

Alcohol poisoning can cause a drop in body temperature, leading to hypothermia. Cold or bluish skin is a sign that the body is struggling to maintain normal function.

Unconsciousness & Inability To Wake Up

If a person becomes unresponsive or loses consciousness, this is an emergency. People may think that letting them "sleep it off" is safe, but this can be deadly. 

How Do You Know If You Have Alcohol Poisoning?

If you have acute alcohol intoxication, you’ll show some of the aforementioned symptoms. You’ll also likely have a blood alcohol level (BAL) of 0.30% to 0.40%. A BAC over 0.40% is potentially fatal. 

Alcohol Poisoning Treatment

If you suspect someone has alcohol poisoning, you must act quickly. 

Even if someone does not have every symptom, it’s not too early to get help. The condition can progress rapidly, so seeking prompt medical attention is essential. 

Wondering how to treat alcohol poisoning at home? The best way is to stay with the person and call for medical intervention. 

Immediate Actions To Take

• Call 911 immediately
• Keep the person awake and sitting up
• Encourage sips of water if conscious

If the person is awake and alert, offer them small sips of water to prevent dehydration. However, do not force them to drink.

• Keep them warm
• Monitor breathing & pulse
• Turn them on their side

What Not To Do For Someone With Alcohol Poisoning

There are several misconceptions about treating alcohol poisoning. Avoid the following:

• Do not let someone "sleep it off" — alcohol levels can continue rising even after someone stops drinking 
• Do not give a person coffee: caffeine does not sober a person up and can worsen dehydration
• Do not induce vomiting: the person could choke on their vomit due to impaired reflexes
• Do not let them walk it off: physical activity does not speed up alcohol metabolism and could lead to falls or injuries

Medical Treatment For Alcohol Poisoning

Once in the hospital, medical professionals may use the following treatments, depending on the severity of alcohol poisoning:

• Intravenous (IV) Fluids: To rehydrate the body and restore electrolyte balance
• Oxygen Therapy: To ensure proper oxygen supply, especially if breathing is slow
• Stomach Pumping: In severe cases, the stomach may be pumped to remove excess alcohol

How Long Can Alcohol Poisoning Last?

The amount of time someone has alcohol poisoning is contingent on a few factors, like their body and how much alcohol was consumed. Recovery depends on how quickly treatment is received. Most people recover fully with timely medical intervention, but delays can lead to long-term health issues or death.

Alcohol poisoning is a dangerous and potentially fatal condition that requires immediate medical attention. Recognizing the signs—such as confusion, vomiting, seizures, slow breathing, and unconsciousness can save lives. Providing first aid is crucial in preventing serious complications.

The best way to prevent alcohol poisoning is to practice responsible drinking habits, know your limits, and stay aware of the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption. By staying informed and looking out for loved ones, you can reduce the dangers of alcohol poisoning and promote safer drinking practices. If you are struggling to curb alcohol intake, help is available. 

Are You Drinking Too Much?

Is drinking affecting your job? Is alcohol harming your health or relationships? Does your drinking worry you? Ever tried to drink less but failed?

If any of this sounds familiar, Oar Health might be right for you. Oar Health offers medication FDA-approved for the treatment of alcohol problems. A daily pill to drink less or quit.

Qualify For Treatment