How do I recognize alcohol intoxication?

Alcohol poisoning: recognize symptoms early and take action

Alcohol poisoning occurs when the body absorbs more alcohol than it can process, often leading to serious, potentially life-threatening conditions. It becomes particularly dangerous when the symptoms of alcohol poisoning are overlooked or misinterpreted. Often the affected person or bystanders assume that the "sleep it off" approach is sufficient, but in the case of alcohol poisoning, this assumption can have fatal consequences. It is therefore particularly important to interpret the signs correctly in order to be able to act in time and take the right measures in an emergency.

Warning signals from the body

First signs of alcohol intoxication

The first warning signs of alcohol intoxication are often still relatively unspecific and can easily be overlooked or dismissed as "typical" symptoms of being drunk. The first signs often include speech disorders, where the person concerned begins to slur their words, has difficulty speaking and can no longer formulate clear sentences. Balance also suffers; stumbling and unsteady gait are the first outward symptoms. Many sufferers also feel very nauseous and begin to vomit, which is a clear warning sign that the body is already overloaded. Confusion or disorientation are also common - the sufferer no longer knows where they are or what is happening around them. Such signs are alarm signals and should be taken seriously, as they indicate that the body is having difficulty processing the alcohol and is already reaching its limits.

When it becomes critical

Advanced symptoms

If alcohol consumption continues and the stress on the body increases, more serious symptoms occur that require urgent action. Critical signs of severe alcohol intoxication include loss of consciousness and even fainting, which means that the person becomes unresponsive and unresponsive to external stimuli. Breathing also slows down considerably and becomes irregular, which is very dangerous as the oxygen supply is restricted. The body often shows clear external signs such as pale or even bluish skin color - a sign that the circulation is disturbed. Sensitivity to cold or shivering may also occur, indicating possible hypothermia. These symptoms indicate that the central nervous system is severely impaired and medical treatment is required. Anyone who recognizes these signs should call an ambulance without hesitation, as the person's life is in danger.

Alcohol intoxication in adolescents: Special risks

Adolescents are particularly at risk of alcohol poisoning, as they often get into risky situations more quickly due to their lower body weight and inexperience. Their bodies break down alcohol more slowly, which increases the risk of intoxication, and their tolerance to alcohol is usually lower. Even small amounts can lead to typical symptoms of intoxication more quickly in young people. Parents, friends and relatives should therefore be vigilant and watch out for particular changes in behavior such as sudden tiredness, confusion or mood swings, which can also be the first signs in adolescents. Vomiting or aggressive behavior is also an indication that the body is reaching its limits. As teenagers often do not know how to deal with such symptoms themselves or their friends, it is important that adults provide information at an early stage and intervene in an emergency.

First aid for alcohol poisoning: how you can help

If someone shows signs of alcohol poisoning, quick action is essential to prevent life-threatening complications. First place the person in the recovery position to ensure that the airway remains clear should they vomit. This minimizes the risk of choking. The next step is to call the emergency services on 112 as soon as the person's condition deteriorates or if they lose consciousness. While waiting for the emergency services, it is important to check breathing and pulse regularly. Also try to keep the affected person warm, as alcohol poisoning is often accompanied by hypothermia. It is important to avoid supposed home remedies such as coffee or cold showers, as these tend to worsen the condition rather than improve it. In such a situation, calm, observation and professional help are the best support you can give.

When the emergency doctor needs to be called

In certain cases, the situation is so critical that an ambulance must be called. As soon as someone falls unconscious or has irregular or very slow breathing, medical assistance is essential, as the person concerned could be in a life-threatening condition. Even if the affected person vomits profusely for a long time and is unresponsive, no time should be wasted. An apparently "deep sleep" can also be deceptive here, as it could actually be deep unconsciousness. A quick emergency call and clear communication of symptoms to medical staff can save lives. Better to call 911 once too often than too little - if you're unsure, it's safer to call for help.

Common misconceptions: Myths surrounding alcohol poisoning

There are many myths surrounding alcohol poisoning and how it can be alleviated or "slept off". However, these misconceptions can be dangerous as they often lead to the severity of the situation being underestimated. A common misconception is that coffee can help you sober up. In fact, caffeine acts as a stimulant and can cause the person to overestimate their own limits, even though the alcohol is still working. The belief that "sleep cures everything" is also dangerous. In some cases, sleep can even lead to unconsciousness, which can have fatal consequences if the person concerned is unobserved. It is also often assumed that vomiting removes alcohol from the body. This is also not sufficient - on the contrary, vomiting carries the additional risk of the person concerned suffocating if they are not lying in the correct position. It is therefore important to contradict these myths and instead rely on first aid and medical support.

Prevention: How to avoid alcohol poisoning

The best protection against alcohol poisoning is prevention. There are simple but effective tips to help you deal with alcohol safely. Firstly, it is advisable to drink slowly and drink water in between to relieve the body and improve hydration. Eating before or while drinking is also a good strategy, as the alcohol is absorbed more slowly. It is also helpful to know your own limits and to respect them. Peer pressure or external influences should not obscure the fact that everyone reacts differently to alcohol. By observing these preventative measures, the risk of alcohol poisoning can be significantly reduced so that nothing stands in the way of an enjoyable and safe experience.