Alcohol Poisoning: Signs, Symptoms and What to Do

Alcohol poisoning, also commonly referred to as an alcohol overdose, is a serious and life-threatening consequence of consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period of time. It happens when there is too much alcohol in a person’s bloodstream that results in life-supporting areas of the brain and body shutting down that control a person’s breathing, heart rate and temperature.

Keep reading to learn more about the critical signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning, immediate actions to take if someone is suffering and the importance of medical intervention. With the knowledge you gain you could save a life.

Common Signs and Symptoms

• Mental confusion
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Slow breathing (think of this as fewer than 8 breaths per minute)
• Irregular breathing (a gap of more than 10 seconds between breaths)
• Blue, gray or pale colored skin
• Low body temperature (hypothermia)
• Semi-conscious (trouble staying conscious or awake)
• Unconscious (passed out)

What Should I Do if Witness Someone Experiencing Alcohol Poisoning?

It can be hard to decide if you think someone is drunk enough to need medical help. You may worry about what might happen to you, as the person seeking assistance, especially if the person is underage. But the consequences of not getting help in time can be far more serious.

Here are a few critical things you should know and can do:

• If you suspect someone has alcohol poisoning, dial 9-1-1 or your local emergency number immediately. It’s not necessary for a person to have all the common signs and symptoms before you seek help. Time is critical, so it’s best to take action right away rather than be sorry later.
• While waiting for medical help:
  • Try to keep the person awake and sitting up.
  • If the person is laying down, try to keep them on their side to prevent choking in case they vomit.
  • Don’t leave them alone.
• It’s a common misconception that individuals will simply ‘sleep off’ the effects of excessive drinking, but the reality is far more dangerous. A person who has passed out can die.
• Be prepared to give information. If you know the kind and amount of alcohol the person drank, and when, inform the hospital or emergency personnel.

Resources

If you need help to quit or limit your drinking, the Department of Defense provides screenings to help identify what type of support you need and what treatment would work best for you. They offer inpatient, partial inpatient and outpatient treatment options.

Military OneSource
Support for Military Personnel & Families | Military OneSource is a DoD supported service offering 24/7 confidential support and are specialized in helping military members, families and veterans. Services are provided CONUS and OCONUS via call-in, live chat and text on their website and mobile app.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
You may also call the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free and confidential treatment referral and information service (provided in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders and is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Check out additional resources for Service members here.