Alcohol poisoning is dangerous and often fatal to the human body. While it is popularly identified as a result of an overdose, presence of any poisonous substance in the drink can also cause similar damages. Even if the victim lives, an alcohol overdose can lead to irreversible brain damage. Therefore, identifying alcohol poisoning and taking swift measures can save lives.
Knowing the Signs
Although cognitive imbalance and passing out might be a common side effect of alcohol consumption, they can mask fatal medical consequences. Vomiting sensation leading suffocation or the poisoning of the respiratory centre in the brain can result in death. Other signs of alcohol poisoning include mental confusion and convulsions.
The Result Can Be Fatal
Alcohol depresses nerves that control involuntary actions such as breathing and the gag reflex (which prevents choking). A fatal dose of alcohol will eventually stop these functions, often leading the victim to choke on his/her vomit. There have been numerous cases where alcohol poisoning have led to seizures and heart failures. Subsequently, untreated severe dehydration from vomiting can cause seizures, permanent brain damage, or death.
Seek Medical Assistance
Consuming alcohol even within legal limits is still considered taboo in Bangladesh. However, avoiding medical help in an effort to conceal excessive alcohol consumption can lead to someone’s death. The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) can continue to rise even when the person passes out. Even after a person stops drinking, alcohol in the stomach and intestine continues to enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body. It is dangerous to assume the person will be fine by sleeping it off. Therefore it is crucial to seek emergency medical help instead of pondering over legal and social ramifications.
