An alcohol overdose happens when there is so much alcohol in the bloodstream that areas of the brain begin to shut down. These control basic life-support functions, including breathing, heart rate and temperature. This can lead to permanent brain damage or death, the NIAAA said.
Binge drinking is defined as having four drinks over a two-hour period if you’re a woman, or five drinks if you’re a man. High-intensity drinking is two or more times that amount.
Teenagers and young adults are at a particular risk because research shows they often engage in this type of drinking.
Even small increases in blood alcohol content (BAC) can decrease motor coordination and cloud judgment, increasing the risk of injury from a fall, car crash or violence or from engaging in unprotected or unintended sex.
BAC can continue to rise even when a person stops drinking or is unconscious as alcohol in the stomach and intestine continues to enter the bloodstream.
Never leave an unconscious person to “sleep it off,” the NIAAA warned.
If you suspect someone has an alcohol overdose, call 911 immediately. Do not wait for the person to have all the symptoms. Be aware that a person who has passed out can die.
Do not leave an intoxicated person alone, as he or she is at risk of injury from falling or choking, including on his or her own vomit.
Be aware that cold showers, hot coffee or walking do not reverse the effects of alcohol overdose and could actually make things worse.
While waiting for medical help to arrive, be prepared to tell first responders as much as you can about what the person was drinking, whether he or she took drugs and any health information that you know about the person, including allergies, medications and existing health conditions.
