Drink much?

Posted by Admin in Blurby-Blurbs on 12 15th, 2008 | no responses

With the holiday season upon us, many people will be drinking more than usual. Whether it’s your family gatherings or just the realization you have no money… many will turn to alcohol. Hey man, that’s okay! I like to drink as much as the next person, but here are a few things you should know about:

Think about the sober ones around you- would you want to babysit your wasted brother at a holiday dinner? I think not.
Alcohol depresses nerves that control involuntary actions such as breathing and the gag reflex (which prevents choking). Hence- if you’re drunk enough, pass out and puke.. you can easily choke and cause death by asphyxiation.
Even while you’re passed out, your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) may continue to rise. So even when you stop drinking, your body continues to ingest the alcohol you have consumed. This needs to be remembered when you’re trying to sober up, especially if you’re considering driving- it may need more time than you think.

Critical Signs for Alcohol Poisoning

Mental confusion, stupor, coma, or person cannot be roused.
Vomiting.
Seizures.
Slow breathing (fewer than eight breaths per minute).
Irregular breathing (10 seconds or more between breaths).
Hypothermia (low body temperature), bluish skin color, paleness.

What Should I Do If I Suspect Someone Has Alcohol Poisoning?

Know the danger signals.
Do not wait for all symptoms to be present.
Be aware that a person who has passed out may die.
If there is any suspicion of an alcohol overdose, call 911 for help. Don’t try to guess the level of drunkenness.

What Can Happen to Someone With Alcohol Poisoning That Goes Untreated?

Victim chokes on his or her own vomit.
Breathing slows, becomes irregular, or stops.
Heart beats irregularly or stops.
Hypothermia (low body temperature).
Hypoglycemia (too little blood sugar) leads to seizures.
Untreated severe dehydration from vomiting can cause seizures, permanent brain damage, or death.

I am not implying that one shouldn’t drink at all, I’m just trying to release details that a lot of people may not be aware of. Drink all you want people- but especially have your eye out for the things previously listed; whether it’s yourself, or a friend. I write obituaries for a living and I can tell you, it’s always busier around the holidays. Be careful!! And have a Merry freakin Christmas.

http://www.collegedrinkingprevention.gov/OtherAlcoholInformation/factsAboutAlcoholPoisoning.aspx#WhatHappens