Alcohol Poisoning

Alcohol Poisoning

For more information telephone (+44) 08454670612 or (+44) 07593809574 or email us

A person has alcohol poisoning if they have consumed a toxic amount of alcohol, usually over a short period. Their blood alcohol level is so high it is considered toxic (poisonous). The patient can become extremely confused, unresponsive, disoriented, have shallow breathing, and can even pass out or go into a coma.

Facts about Alcohol Poisoning


  • Alcohol poisoning is a serious condition.
  • Even when someone stops drinking, there is risk of alcohol poisoning for some time afterwards.
  • Symptoms include confusion, abnormal breathing, and vomiting.
  • In severe cases, alcohol poisoning is life-threatening.


Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning

Even when someone stops drinking, Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) can continue to rise for 30-40 minutes, resulting in worsening symptoms.

The following signs and symptoms may indicate a progression from being drunk to alcohol poisoning:

  • confusion
  • hypothermia (the person's body temperature drops)
  • pale skin, sometimes it may take on a bluish tinge
  • the individual is unresponsive but conscious (stupor)
  • the individual passes out
  • abnormal breathing - sometimes up to 10 seconds between breaths
  • very slow breathing
  • vomiting - potential to choke on vomit when confused

In serious cases:

  • breathing might stop completely
  • a heart attack may occur
  • there is a risk of choking on their own vomit - vomit might be inhaled into the lungs causing a serious infection
  • hypothermia
  • if the individual loses too much fluid (severe dehydration), there is a risk of brain damage
  • if blood glucose levels drop (hypoglucenia), they might develop seizures
  • If the alcohol poisoning is extreme, the patient can go into a coma and potentially die.

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This page focuses on the medical aspects of alcohol poisoning, rather than other environmental dangers of alcohol abuse such as getting into fights, losing possessions, or having problems with the law.

If your drinking has got out of control we can help.  Telephone us on (+44) 08454670612 or (+44) 07593809584 or email us

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