Drug Rehab San Jose - What Is An Alcohol Overdose?

By Author: Micheal Shawn
Total Articles: 25
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An alcohol overdose can happen when one drinks too much alcohol at one time. Alcohol affects the central nervous system and is considered a depressant. It slows down the speech, movement, and reaction time.

Most of the people consume alcohol because it soothes the soul and has a relaxing effect. Drinking can provide a healthy social experience; however, consuming a large amount of alcohol on a regular basis can lead to serious health complications.

What causes an alcohol overdose?

An alcohol overdose happens when a person drinks an excess amount of alcohol than the body can safely process. The stomach and small intestine quickly absorb alcohol so that it enters the bloodstream at a rapid rate. The more alcohol one consumes, the greater the quantity of alcohol which enters the bloodstream. The body can usually process 1 ounce of alcohol per hour. However, if one drinks more than this, one may consume so much alcohol that it affects the functioning of various organs in the body.

What are the risk factors of alcohol overdose?

The most prominent risk factors of alcohol overdose include:

- Age- Young adults are more likely to overdose on alcohol, as they drink excessively. However, risk factors remain the same for both adults and young people.

- Gender- As compared to women, men are likely to drink more heavy and fall victim of alcohol overdose.

- Binge drinking- People who consume more than 5 drinks in an hour are at a risk of alcohol overdose.

What are the symptoms of alcohol overdose?

The symptoms of alcohol overdose include:

- Nausea and vomiting
- Hypothermia
- Hypertension
- Increase in blood sugar
- Cardiac arrest
- Frequent seizures

An alcohol overdose can suppress a person’s reflex actions. Therefore, it is necessary to take care of the person who is overdosed.

How to prevent alcohol overdose?

Alcohol overdose can be prevented if one reduces the intake. Moreover, it is necessary that a person who regularly drinks alcohol should be taken to a certified alcohol drug rehab San Jose and provided with therapy by the professionals.