Alcohol poisoning is a serious consequence of excessive drinking that can lead to emergency medical problems or fatality. Drinking too much can lead to triggering the gag reflex, fluctuations in body temperature, increased heart rate, and slowed breathing. By the time someone notices these signs of alcohol overdose, the damage may already be done. A person who is struggling with alcoholism may overdose multiple times, putting their lives at risk. If you’re looking for help for alcoholism, it is available at addiction treatment centers. Contact the experts at TruHealing Centers by calling [Direct] today for alcohol addiction treatment.
What Are the Signs of Alcohol Overdose?
The symptoms of alcohol poisoning do not always occur at once. They may happen gradually as the alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream slowly. Some of the most common symptoms of overdose include:
- Passing out and staying unconscious
- Low body temperature (hypothermia)
- Pale or blue skin
- Irregular or slowed breathing
- Seizures
- Vomiting
A person who exhibits these symptoms will often be a highly confused state if they are conscious at all. Many times, they are unable to speak clearly, slurring entire thoughts or sentences. More importantly, they are completely unaware that they are experiencing an overdose. Someone who has an overdose will require immediate medical attention without delay. Afterward, a person may want to consider joining one or more substance abuse treatment programs.
What to Do If Someone Has Alcohol Poisoning
If you suspect that someone shows signs of alcohol overdose, you need to seek medical help right away. Some things you can do to help the person may include the following steps.
Call 911
Grab a phone and call 911 or a local emergency phone number at a medical center. Never assume that the person will sleep off the effects of the alcohol. When you call 911, be prepared to describe what is happening and where you are located. Give the first responder clear directions to your location.
Provide As Much Information as Possible
When the paramedics arrive, be prepared to provide as much information as possible. The more you tell the paramedics, the more they are able to provide emergency treatment effectively. Share information such as the symptoms, the type of alcohol the person consumed, how long they have been drinking, and if they were taking any other substances.
Stay with the Unconscious Person
It may be tempting to leave the person to get a phone or deal with another matter. However, it is vital that you stay next to the person until the ambulance arrives. If you walk away, a person may choke on their own vomit. This can lead to suffocation if they are unconscious or too drunk to roll over.
Get Help No Matter What
You may be in a situation where calling the ambulance may invite suspicion from parents, the police, an employer, or a school administrator. However, the most important issue is the survival of the drunk person. Therefore, err on the side of caution. Pick up the phone and call for help regardless of the consequences.
If you are suffering from alcoholism, you may also want to seek treatment for addiction at a residential addiction treatment program. You can get the treatment you need to overcome your addiction and get back on your feet.
Learn More About the Signs of Alcohol Overdose at TruHealing Centers
Don’t become a victim of substance abuse. Learn more about the signs of an alcohol overdose at TruHealing Centers by contacting [Direct] today. We offer a variety of addiction treatment therapies that can help you stop drinking and stay away from alcohol for good.