Whenever you consider the realities of alcohol use disorder, you will probably image a drunken person stumbling out of a bar or another person gulping down a bottle of wine in the comfort of their home. No matter what situation is brought to mind, we can all agree that intoxication is an extremely dangerous situation. During this state, alcoholics and abusers are not only vulnerable to attacks and additional crimes but are also unbelievably sick, vomiting and losing control of other functions. However, have you ever wondered what it means to be “intoxicated”? Sure, we know this is just another term for drunkenness, but is there anything value we can take from this unfortunate life lesson? Let’s take a closer look at some facts about intoxication.
Defining Intoxication
Once people have officially become “intoxicated,” alcohol has completed impaired their brains and bodies, resulting in a string of problems. Overall, these men and women will suffer from slurred speech, blurry vision, poor coordination, lack of balance, and confusion. At this point, authorities can determine the level of intoxication by initializing a breathalyzer test (or, in another situation, a blood test).
What Triggers It?
Did you know that the widely-used term “alcohol” is actually a collective definition of ethanol? Found in wine, beer, and liquor, this chemical has the unpleasant ability to depress regions of the brain. The more ethanol people consume, the stronger the effects of ethanol.
However, keep in mind that alcohol begins to lose effect if it stays in the stomach too long. After consumption, 20% of ethanol is absorbed through tissues in the stomach lining, and the remainder is processed through the small intestine. In this sense, some people may attempt to prevent intoxication by eating food prior to indulging.
You’re Making It Worse
Keep in mind that some men and women are more sensitive to alcohol, meaning they may suffer from more severe intoxication than other people. In certain cases, people who are heavy drinkers can consume frightening amounts of this substance without feeling the effects for a long time. Here are some additional factors that can trigger severe intoxication:
- Prescription medications
- Body weight and fat
- Underlying medical conditions or health problems
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
Alcohol use disorder is a dangerous mental illness that should not be taken lightly. Whether a person you know frequently abuses alcohol or has turned into a full-blown drunk, both cases involve some aspect of this dangerous disease. Alcohol abuse and alcoholism are degenerative and progressive and can wreak havoc on the mind, body, and spirit. Nevertheless, you can always find a way to overcome your problems and heal.
Are you, a friend, or a loved one suffering from a severe form of alcohol use disorder? If so, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the rehabilitation process and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle.
If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to put a stop to your alcohol use disorder today.
