When it comes to drugs in our society, alcohol might be one of the most complicated. Although this drug (yes, it is one) is 100% legal and regulated by the federal government, alcoholic drinks have a high risk for abuse or addiction and can trigger a wide variety of health problems. Recent studies may prove that a single glass of wine or shot of whiskey can prevent heart and brain problems, but alcohol still comes with an overloaded baggage claim of risks. In severe cases, people will drink themselves into a stupor and suffer from alcohol poisoning, a deadly incident where alcohol starts to flood the body (literally). Let’s find out how you can identify a case of alcohol poisoning and protect your friend or loved one from certain death.
What Are the Symptoms?
On the surface, you may have a hard time determining if your friend has simply passed out from heavy drinking or if they are suffering from alcohol poisoning. After all, sleeping and unconsciousness (from poisoning) are relatively similar in both cases. However, here are the symptoms that are exclusive to a case of alcohol poisoning:
- Continuing cycle of waking up and passing out
- Onset of seizures
- Drop in heart rate
- Lack of a gag reflex (which prevents choking when a person is vomiting)
- Cold body temperature and bluish skin
- Irregular breathing (less than 8 times in 1 minute) or 10 or more seconds between breaths
- Vomiting while unconscious
- Lack of consciousness before and after vomiting
How You Can Help
If you believe a friend or a loved one has suffered an attack from blood alcohol poisoning, here are some steps you can follow to save their life:
- Always call 911 first and foremost. Never hesitate to take this action.
- Be prepared to provide details information to the paramedics and officers called to the scene, including how much alcohol was consumed (or how much your think the victim consumed), the type of alcohol he or she drank, and the time it was consumed.
- Never leave your friend alone, even when emergency personnel arrive. If required, tip them on their side so they can vomit properly. This might be nasty, but it is necessary to make sure their air passage is clear. Many drunks will die from choking on their vomit.
- Help your friend sit up and vomit properly if they are conscious.
- Keep a close watch on his breathing and be prepared to administer CPR if you know it.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Abuse or Alcoholism
Hard partying and heavy alcohol consumption do not make a person popular or loved, despite what many other people around you may say. Remember, you are much better than the bottle you are holding and can easily regain control, if you are willing to seek out help in the right place. Above all else, love yourself, or you will not find a way to repair your mind and body. With a little patience and perseverance, you will regain your footing on the snowy path to recovery.
If you are suffering from a severe case of alcoholism or alcohol abuse or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
