Alcohol Poisoning

Overview

This is a serious condition. It happens when you drink a lot of alcohol very quickly. The alcohol overwhelms your body. Alcohol poisoning is a medical emergency. It can kill you.

Causes

Alcohol poisoning can happen to anyone who drinks too much alcohol. It's a danger for people who binge drink. That's when you have many alcoholic drinks in a short time. If you're male, you are binge drinking when you have five or more drinks within two hours. If you're female, you are binge drinking if you have at least four drinks in two hours. Alcohol poisoning is also a danger for young children. That's because they may drink alcoholic beverages or household products without knowing what's in them.

Symptoms

Symptoms of alcohol poisoning include confusion and vomiting. The person may pass out and have seizures. Their breathing may become slow and irregular. Their body temperature may drop, and their skin may become blue or pale. These symptoms are serious. Do not ignore them. Do not leave the person alone, especially if they are vomiting. Call for medical help as soon as possible.

Treatment

A person who has alcohol poisoning needs to be treated by a doctor. They have to be monitored while their body gets rid of the alcohol. They may benefit from oxygen therapy, IV fluids, vitamins, glucose or other treatments.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.