Alcohol is one of the most commonly used substances in the U.S. and even moderate use can lead to serious health and safety risks. As April's Alcohol Awareness Month draws to a close, InnerAct Alliance joins with the Partnership to End Addiction to highlight the importance of continuing conversations about the dangers of alcohol use and knowing how to recognize signs of alcohol poisoning.
Binge drinking, defined as 4-5 drinks in 2 hours, is a common cause of alcohol poisoning that can happen when someone drinks too much alcohol too quickly causing alcohol in the blood to rise so much that it starts to affect important body functions like breathing and heart rate. Alcohol poisoning is preventable and knowing what to do if it happens can save a life. Symptoms may include: vomiting, seizures, slow or uneven breathing, low body temperature, confusion/passing out, pale/blue skin or lips, being unconscious or difficult to wake up.
Alcohol poisoning is not something that gets better with sleep or drinking water. It can cause serious health problems, such as brain damage or even death if not treated right away. If you see someone with signs of alcohol poisoning, call 911 or get them to the nearest emergency room. Stay with the person, watch their breathing, and try to keep them awake. Turn them on their side so they don't choke. Do not try giving them coffee, putting them in a cold shower, or letting them sleep it off - this can make things worse. Let emergency responders know what & how much the person drank, any other substances they may have taken, and other health information you may have.
For free alcohol resources and a confidential alcohol risk assessment, visit the Partnership to End Addiction at: https://drugfree.org/alcohol-resource-center/
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