First Aid for Alcohol Poisoning

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

This overwhelms the body’s ability to process and eliminate the alcohol, leading to a toxic buildup in the bloodstream.

The body primarily processes alcohol through the liver, but when the intake exceeds the liver’s capacity, alcohol levels in the blood increase, affecting various bodily functions and systems.

While getting drunk may seem like an enjoyable experience, taking things too far can result in death. There were 1,742 alcohol-induced deaths (1,245 males and 497 females) in Australia in 2022 from causes such as liver cirrhosis and alcohol poisoning.

How Alcohol Poisoning Occurs

Alcohol is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream through the stomach and small intestine. The liver metabolizes alcohol at a steady rate, typically about one standard drink per hour.

However, when someone consumes alcohol rapidly, such as through binge drinking, the liver cannot keep up, resulting in the accumulation of alcohol in the blood.

Effects of Excessive Alcohol Consumption

High levels of alcohol in the bloodstream depress the central nervous system, leading to:

• Impaired motor functions: Coordination and balance become compromised.
• Altered mental state: Judgment, reasoning, and consciousness are affected.
• Depressed vital functions: Breathing, heart rate, and body temperature regulation are slowed, which can be life-threatening.

Recognizing Alcohol Poisoning

Symptoms of alcohol poisoning include:

• Confusion and stupor: The person may be disoriented and unable to respond appropriately.
• Vomiting: Excessive alcohol can irritate the stomach lining, causing vomiting.
• Seizures: Severe intoxication can lead to seizures due to low blood sugar levels.
• Slow or irregular breathing: Alcohol can depress the central nervous system, leading to dangerously slow or irregular breathing.
• Hypothermia: The person may have cold or clammy skin, indicating a drop in body temperature.
• Unconsciousness: The person may pass out and be difficult or impossible to awaken.

Immediate First Aid Steps

• Call for Emergency Help: Dial emergency services immediately. Time is critical, and professional medical assistance is essential.
• Stay with the Person: Do not leave the person alone. Monitor their condition continuously.
• Position the Person Safely: If the person is unconscious or semi-conscious, place them on their side in the recovery position. This helps prevent choking if they vomit.
• Recovery Position: Lay the person on their side with their bottom arm extended straight and the top arm bent at the elbow. Bend the top leg at the knee to prevent them from rolling onto their stomach or back.
• Keep the Person Warm: Use a blanket or coat to keep the person warm. Alcohol poisoning can cause a drop in body temperature.
• Check Breathing and Heart Rate: Ensure the person is breathing and has a pulse. If breathing stops or becomes dangerously irregular, be prepared to perform CPR if you are trained to do so.
• Do Not Induce Vomiting: Trying to make the person vomit can lead to choking or inhaling vomit into the lungs, which can cause further complications.

What Not to Do

• Do Not Give Food or Drinks: Giving the person food or more alcohol will not help and can worsen their condition.
• Do Not Leave the Person Alone: Alcohol poisoning can progress rapidly, and the person may need immediate medical intervention.
• Do Not Assume They Will Sleep It Off: Alcohol poisoning is not something that can be slept off. Immediate medical attention is required.

Prevention Tips

• Drink Responsibly: Know your limits and pace yourself. Avoid binge drinking.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink water between alcoholic beverages.
• Eat Before Drinking: Consuming food can slow the absorption of alcohol.
• Look Out for Each Other: If you’re out with friends, keep an eye on each other and be aware of the signs of alcohol poisoning.

Conclusion

Alcohol poisoning is a medical emergency that requires prompt action. Knowing the signs and providing appropriate first aid can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Always prioritize safety and seek professional medical help immediately if you suspect someone is suffering from alcohol poisoning. Your quick response could save a life.

Guest post by Australia Wide First Aid