Local Rehab Warns Public About Alcohol Poisoning

Erlanger, KY - SUN Behavioral Health Kentucky recently published a blog post that explains what happens to the body when it experiences alcohol poisoning. They also explained what to do when witnessing someone experiencing alcohol poisoning. Alcohol is absorbed through the small intestine and the stomach, where it travels through the bloodstream. It affects the brain, kidneys, and lungs.

“The first step in helping someone with alcohol poisoning is to get them somewhere safe. Find a quiet room and keep them warm. Keep them on their side to reduce the risk of choking on vomit and call 911. When help arrives, be honest about how much the person has been drinking and if any other substances are in their system. This will allow them to treat accordingly,” the blog post states.

The liver removes toxins from the body, which includes alcohol. Usually, it can break down one drink in one hour. However, when people drink more alcohol than their liver can process, alcohol builds up in the body. This build-up can result in vomiting from alcohol poisoning as the body needs to remove the toxins through a different method. Alcohol poisoning can also impact the heart by causing it to beat irregularly or stop altogether. It can also affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature. When the body’s temperature is low, cardiac arrest can happen. Repeated consumption of alcohol can eventually lead to the heart to change shape, leading to heart failure or making it difficult for the heart to function correctly.

Several signs and symptoms might be present when someone is experiencing alcohol poisoning. Not every sign or symptom indicates alcohol poisoning, and they might not experience all of the signs and symptoms. One sign they might experience is confusion or drifting in and out of consciousness. They might vomit, have trouble walking, or have impaired speech. Their skin might also be clammy. As alcohol poisoning progresses, they might have difficulty breathing. Their heart rate might also slow down as their body temperature lowers. People can also experience seizures during this time and might have dulled responses. Someone experiencing alcohol poisoning should never be left alone, as choking or injuries are possible. Keep them safe and on their side to prevent them from choking on vomit.

Typically, alcohol poisoning occurs when one’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is at .25 percent. Vomiting occurs around .15 percent. People can enter a coma or die at approximately .30 percent. While every person has different factors that affect their BAC, women are more likely to have high BAC percentages because the liver does not produce as much of the enzyme responsible for breaking down alcohol.

“Alcohol use disorder can affect your life physically and mentally. Health problems such as heart attacks and stroke are common with long-term alcohol use. At SUN Behavioral Health Kentucky, we offer programs to help you rediscover yourself and find lasting recovery,” the blog post continues.

SUN Behavioral Health Kentucky offers no-cost care assessments that allow patients to meet with a representative before they start their treatment. Their 24/7 crisis care will enable people to start treatment when a crisis comes instead of waiting until the moment is convenient. They also know that different age groups require different care, so they offer a geriatric program for those over 65.

For more information about SUN Behavioral Health Kentucky’s services, visit their website or call them at 859-429-5188.