What Are the Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning? Spot the Signs To Stay Safe

It’s a story we hear all too often — a fun evening takes a dangerous turn when drinking goes too far. Alcohol poisoning, a dangerous consequence of binge-drinking, is a silent epidemic. According to the CDC, an average of six people die from alcohol poisoning daily in the United States! Shockingly, 76% of those who die are adults aged 35 to 64, dispelling the myth that alcohol poisoning predominantly affects younger age groups.

But how can we tell when a fun evening turns deadly? And what are the signs of alcohol poisoning or an alcohol overdose? Let's arm ourselves with the science behind alcohol poisoning.

What Is Alcohol Poisoning?

First things first: let's demystify the term "alcohol poisoning." It's more than just a terrible hangover or a regrettable karaoke performance. Alcohol poisoning is a severe — and sometimes deadly — consequence of drinking large amounts of alcohol in a short period of time.

The Science of Alcohol Poisoning

As we drink alcohol, it gets absorbed into our bloodstream from the stomach and intestines. Once alcohol is in our bloodstream, it circulates throughout our body, affecting our central nervous system, which controls virtually all body functions. The concentration of alcohol in the bloodstream is often referred to as Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC). The higher the BAC, the more impaired we get.

The liver, responsible for processing and breaking down alcohol, gets to work as soon as booze enters the body. However, it can only go so fast — since we process alcohol at a rate of roughly one standard drink per hour (12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits), when we drink too much too quickly, our liver can't keep up. As a result, alcohol builds up in our bloodstream and shuts down areas of the brain that control basic life-support functions such as breathing, heart rate, and temperature control. This is alcohol poisoning, and it's as serious as it sounds.

Sobering Stats

It's vital to back up our understanding of alcohol poisoning with current statistics that highlight just how serious this issue actually is. The following data underscore the urgent need for awareness and prevention:

• Prevalence of binge drinking. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that one in six US adults binge drinks about four times a month, consuming about seven drinks per binge. This results in 17 billion total binge drinks consumed by adults annually, or 467 binge drinks per binge drinker.
• Recent increase. According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, as much as 60 percent of the U.S. population increased their alcohol consumption during COVID-19 lockdowns.
• Gender and alcohol poisoning. According to the CDC, men are more likely to die from alcohol poisoning, accounting for a staggering 76% of all alcohol poisoning deaths.
• Financial implications. Binge drinking cost the United States $191 billion in 2010, or $1.91 a drink, from losses in productivity, health care, crime, and other expenses.
• Global perspective. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 3 million deaths worldwide every year result from harmful use of alcohol, representing 5.3% of all deaths.
• Alcohol's wider impact. Beyond the immediate risk of poisoning, excessive alcohol consumption is a risk factor for over 200 diseases and injury conditions. In fact, according to the HRB National Drugs Library, 5.1% of the global burden of disease and injury is attributed to alcohol, as measured in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).
• Young people at risk. While older adults account for most of the total deaths due to alcohol poisoning, alcohol is the leading risk factor for death in males aged 15-49 years globally (more on this later). This age group is at the prime of their life, with many in the early stages of their careers or starting families — a fact that makes this statistic particularly heart-wrenching.

Spotting the Signs of Alcohol Poisoning

Which of the following are alcohol overdose symptoms? Confusion? Vomiting? Seizures? Well, it’s all three — and many more.

The symptoms of alcohol poisoning aren't always easy to recognize, especially when we're in the throes of a good time. Here are the ones we need to look out for.

1. Confusion or Stupor

When someone drinks too much, they might seem confused or enter into a stupor. This symptom goes beyond feeling momentarily disoriented and can manifest as genuine difficulty in recalling one’s whereabouts and recent actions or maintaining basic conversation. With cognitive abilities impaired, it gets hard to think clearly or make sensible decisions.

As one of the early warning signs of alcohol poisoning, confusion should not be taken lightly. If someone you know begins acting this way, it's essential to keep a close eye on them and ensure they are safe — especially since there’s a risk of permanent brain damage down the road, unless we dial back our drinking in time!

2. Vomiting

Many of us associate vomiting with drinking excessively or having a bad hangover. While this is often the case, consistent vomiting, especially when someone is semi-conscious or unconscious, can be a tell-tale sign of alcohol poisoning.

While vomiting might seem like a good way for the body to rid itself of the alcohol, it raises the risk of choking if the person loses consciousness or becomes semi-conscious, which might be fatal if not addressed promptly. As a result, it's crucial not to assume that someone will "sleep it off" if they're vomiting after having a few too many.

3. Seizures

Excessive alcohol consumption can drastically affect the body's regular functions, one of which is urine production (which accounts for all of those urgent bathroom trips). The dehydration that happens as a result can lead to an imbalance of electrolytes, which are essential for muscle function — including the muscles responsible for breathing and other vital functions.

This imbalance, in turn, can lead to seizures — one of the more severe symptoms of alcohol poisoning. Seizures can cause injury or indicate that the person's body is responding very adversely to the alcohol intake.

4. Slow or Irregular Breathing.

If someone is breathing fewer than eight times a minute or has gaps of ten or more seconds between breaths, that's a cause for alarm. Respiratory problems can emerge as a direct result of excessive alcohol intake.

Breathing irregularities of this magnitude are clear indicators of alcohol poisoning. Such irregularities can decrease the amount of oxygen reaching the brain, causing further complications.

5. Blue-Tinged or Pale Skin

Another symptom to look out for is a change in skin color, especially if it turns blue or pale. This color shift indicates disrupted circulation due to alcohol, meaning vital organs might not be getting enough oxygen-rich blood, which can be lethal.

6. Low Body Temperature (Hypothermia)

While it might seem counterintuitive given that alcohol can make us feel warm, excessive drinking can lower the body's core temperature, potentially leading to hypothermia.

Alcohol expands blood vessels, making us feel warm initially. However, as blood alcohol concentration increases, it can interfere with the body's ability to regulate temperature and cause a significant drop.

This drop in temperature, combined with other symptoms, can quickly put us in danger by leading to hypothermia. If someone has been drinking heavily and feels unusually cold, immediate medical attention should be sought.

7. Unconsciousness or Inability To Wake up

One of the most alarming symptoms of alcohol poisoning is unconsciousness or the inability to be roused. Passing out after heavy drinking isn't just a deep sleep — it might be a sign of a dangerous level of alcohol in the bloodstream.

If someone passes out from drinking and you can't wake them, it's not a joke — it's an emergency. It's vital to recognize this isn't a mere drunken nap. If someone can't be awakened after drinking too much, call for help right away!

Who Is at Risk?

While anyone can experience alcohol poisoning after consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short time, some groups are more susceptible than others. Along with knowing the symptoms, recognizing the high-risk groups can lead to better preventive measures and a deeper understanding of the social dynamics surrounding alcohol consumption. Here's a breakdown:

• Binge drinkers. The practice of consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short timeframe — often defined as drinking five or more drinks in two hours for men and four or more drinks for women — puts people at a significant risk for alcohol poisoning. Folks between ages 18-24 are especially likely to engage in binge drinking and other risky drinking behaviors due to peer pressure, newfound freedoms, or social norms prevalent in college or university environments. Academic stress can also cause some to turn to alcohol as a way to relax and cope with pressure.
• People with chronic alcohol use disorder. Even if they drink regularly, those suffering from alcohol addiction or dependency can still succumb to alcohol poisoning if they consume a particularly large amount in a short period. In this case, “practice” doesn’t “make perfect.”
• People on certain medications. Some medications can increase the effects of alcohol, or interfere with the liver's ability to process it. Those on medications, especially those that interact negatively with alcohol, should be extra cautious.
• Those with certain medical conditions. Those with liver diseases, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, have a reduced capacity to process alcohol, making them more susceptible to its harmful effects. Similarly, those with certain metabolic and autoimmune disorders can be at higher risk.
• Children and teens. Adolescents, due to their lack of experience, curiosity, or a desire to experiment, might be more likely to overdo it. Also, since their bodies are smaller and not yet fully developed, it takes far less alcohol to do harm. Any alcohol consumption in children is dangerous.
• Previous survivors of alcohol poisoning. Someone who has previously experienced alcohol poisoning might have an increased risk due to potential liver damage or other underlying health issues resulting from the initial episode.
• People combining alcohol with illicit drugs. Combining alcohol with other substances — especially depressants — can increase the risk of respiratory failure, a major factor in many alcohol poisoning deaths.
• Genetically predisposed people. Some studies suggest that genetics can play a role in how efficiently our bodies metabolize alcohol. Those with slower metabolic rates might be at higher risk.
• Drinkers with high tolerance levels. Paradoxically, having a high tolerance to alcohol doesn't protect against alcohol poisoning. While someone might drink more without slurring or stumbling as the night goes on, the risk of poisoning remains.

Alcohol Poisoning Symptoms vs Drunk Behavior

It’s important to tell the difference between signs of alcohol poisoning and signs that someone simply had a bit too much to drink. 

• Slurred speech vs. unresponsiveness. People who had too much to drink might slur their words and have trouble speaking clearly. Those who are experiencing alcohol poisoning are more likely to not be speaking at all. 
• Loss of balance vs. slow breathing and stupor. You know how drunk people tend to stumble or walk in a straight line? That’s very different from someone having trouble breathing or even appearing unresponsive and unable to wake up.
• Impaired judgment vs. extreme confusion. Drunkenness often results in poor decision-making and risky behavior, while an alcohol overdose can cause extreme confusion and inability to understand what is happening around them.

But remember, it’s always best to err on the side of caution!

What Are the First Steps To Take If Someone Is Experiencing Alcohol Poisoning?

As much as we all love a good time, it's vital to keep an eye out for the symptoms of alcohol poisoning in ourselves and others. If any of these signs are present, it's crucial to seek medical help immediately. Don't wait for all the symptoms to show, because by then, it could be too late.

Here’s what to do If someone around you is exhibiting symptoms of alcohol poisoning:

• Call 911 or your local emergency number — immediately! This isn't the time to worry about overreacting: it's better to be safe than sorry. Remember, this can be life-threatening. Your swift actions can make all the difference!
• While waiting for medical assistance, keep the person awake if possible, and try to get them to sit up. If they're unconscious or semi-conscious, roll them onto their side to prevent choking.
• To prevent hypothermia, use a blanket to keep them warm.
• Don’t give them anything to eat or drink to make sure they don’t choke on their own vomit. Also, don’t attempt to sober them up with coffee or a cold shower, as these can make things worse.
• Never leave an alcohol-poisoned person alone. Your caring presence is crucial! And remember, you're doing the right thing. There's no shame in seeking help when it's needed.

How To Create Healthier Drinking Habits

As we navigate our way towards healthier drinking habits, knowing the symptoms of alcohol poisoning isn't just about looking out for others — it's about looking out for ourselves, too. It’s important to examine our overall drinking patterns so that we can see if we’re veering into the danger zone. Binge drinking is a red flag, as are blackouts. Be proactive in taking steps to take care of your health:

• Diversify your drinks. Why not try lighter alcoholic beverages? It's a great way to discover new favorites. Or better yet, go for a mocktail!
• Set clear limits. Establishing a drink limit before attending events can help maintain control.
• Start a mindful drinking journal. Note the number of drinks you have and how you felt after each occasion. This practice helps you become more aware of your consumption patterns and its impact on your mood and body.
• “One for One” rule. For every alcoholic drink you have, follow it with a full glass of water. Not only does this help with potential hangovers, but it also ensures you drink alcohol at a slower pace.
• Know your labels. Take time to read and understand drink labels. Look out for alcoholic content and familiarize yourself with terms. It's not just about quantity but also the quality of what you're consuming.

• Seek support. If you're aiming to reduce or quit, inform your close friends and family about your decision. They can provide a supportive environment and even join you in your challenges.

Research shows that taking steps to manage our alcohol consumption is beneficial for both our mental and physical health. Even modest reductions in alcohol intake could lead to significant improvements in overall health and quality of life.

For those of us looking to cut back or quit, there are many strategies and resources available. These range from drinking less potent alcoholic beverages and setting consumption limits to seeking help from professionals and support groups.

Spread the Word

It's a sobering thought that something as seemingly innocent as a few extra drinks could lead to alcohol poisoning. But, with a firm grasp of the science and armed with the knowledge of its symptoms, we're in a much better position to protect ourselves and those around us.

As we continue our journey towards healthier drinking habits, it's important to remember that there's a whole community of us out there, and we're all in this together. The more we understand alcohol poisoning, the better equipped we are to navigate a potentially dangerous situation if it comes up. Let's continue the conversation, support one another, and celebrate our health!