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What Is Alcohol Poisoning And How Do You Prevent It?

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Alcohol Addiction Treatment And Recovery

Introduction

Alcohol addiction is considered as a chronic mental health disorder of a relapsing nature. It is regarded as the third largest factor globally that contributes to loss of health and premature mortality (death)<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>. 
&nbsp;

Alcohol addiction, more commonly known as alcohol use disorder, is a pattern of consuming alcohol to such great lengths that a person finds it difficult to quit despite facing problems associated with uncontrolled drinking.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In alcohol use disorder, individuals consume more alcohol to get the desired effect because their body develops tolerance to the previous dose<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. 
&nbsp;

Alcohol addiction not only causes psychological issues, but it is also associated with emotional, social, financial, and physical challenges<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. 
&nbsp;

Many individuals do not realize the gravity of the situation and consider that alcohol addiction can be dealt through willpower. However, this is far from the truth because alcohol addiction is a brain disorder. Alcohol is a psychoactive substance and it alters the chemical environment in the brain, making it a real challenge for individuals who plan to quit without any assistance or guidance from a healthcare professional.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Alcohol use disorder is a state of psychological and physical dependence on alcohol and to such a great extent that individuals find it hard to function without it. These individuals experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking alcohol<a href="#accordion">[4]</a>. 
&nbsp;

Individuals who are dealing with alcohol addiction often have coexisting mental health issues. Their personal relationships crumble and suffer the most damage due to their addiction. Moreover, they struggle with financial problems. 
&nbsp;

Understanding Alcohol Addiction and Recovery

Alcohol use disorder can be classified into mild, moderate or severe based on how many of the following symptoms of alcohol addiction the individual experiences<a href="#accordion">[2][3]</a>:&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Not being able to control or limit the amount of alcohol they consume despite trying&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Trying to cut down on the amount of alcohol yet being unsuccessful with each attempt&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Continuing to drink despite dealing with the negative consequences associated with alcohol addiction&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Feeling irritable, restless, or cranky when supply of alcohol is ceased or when they are not drinking&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Experiencing withdrawal effects when they try to attempt quitting&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Frequently craving for alcohol</li>
	<li>Always being preoccupied with drinking, and recovering from alcohol</li>
	<li>Isolating themselves from friends and family for drinking&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Giving up on activities that earlier used to excite them&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Increase in absent days at work or school which drastically impacts the financial and academic spheres of their life&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Breaking relationships and social ties because of drinking&nbsp;&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Alcohol use disorder not only affects the individual who is involved in the addiction, it also takes a significant toll on the loved ones.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Anyone who has these symptoms is suffering from alcohol use disorder. However, the good news is that recovery is possible through different treatment options. A healthcare provider can provide a tailored treatment plan that consists of detoxification, medication, and training to prevent relapse.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Alcohol addiction is quite a frequent problem in the West. Globally, 1.4% of the population is estimated to have an alcohol use disorder<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>. 
&nbsp;

However, a recent trend depicts a rise in alcohol consumption in Asia. In 2014, Asia had 30% of global alcohol sales making it one of the most rapidly growing alcohol markets. Moreover, there was an overall increase of 176% in alcohol sales from the year 2000 to 2019, highlighting the surge in alcohol consumption in this region<a href="#accordion">[6]</a>.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In Pakistan, the numbers are on the rise, too, and alcohol use disorder is becoming a growing problem. According to a study, there has been a 10% increase in alcohol-related diseases in the past 5 years. Another matter of concern is that the growing number of individuals admitted in the rehabilitation centers for treatment of alcohol addiction are as young as 14 years of age while previously individuals in rehabilitation were mostly in their 20s<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>. 
&nbsp;

The only way to achieve recovery from alcohol addiction is to seek professional help for the alcohol use disorder. There is no denying that the road to recovery is not a smooth journey and it requires determination from the individual&rsquo;s end. With persistence and support from the healthcare provider, the individual will be able to achieve an addiction-free life.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Alcohol addiction treatment consist of brief intervention, counseling either in groups or separately, an outpatient program that can be started at home through outpatient clinics or an inpatient program at a rehabilitation center that involves a residential stay at an inpatient clinic receiving round-the-clock care while being under the supervision of a healthcare team.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

So, the alcohol addiction treatment comprises of the following: 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Brief Intervention&nbsp;</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

It is a short counseling session of 5-10 minutes that aims to discuss the individual&rsquo;s pattern of drinking. Individuals are briefed about the risks that are associated with their pattern of drinking and are given guidance on how to reduce alcohol intake to prevent complications from developing. Moreover, it addresses the emotional challenges that are linked with excessive alcohol intake. It also updates them about the support groups that they can become a part of, establishing a social network that further encourages quitting alcohol<a href="#accordion">[7]</a>.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Another useful tip is to maintain a &#39;drinking diary&#39; in which they can record their daily alcohol intake. This will help the individuals stay mindful about their drinking routine and will also track their progress<a href="#accordion">[7]</a>.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Detoxification&nbsp;</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

This is the process of body cleansing by completely eliminating alcohol from the individual&rsquo;s system. It is achieved through complete cessation of alcohol and withdrawal symptoms are then medically managed. The duration of detoxification usually takes 2-7 days on average. Sedative medications are often given to prevent episodes of withdrawal. As mentioned earlier, it can either be done in an outpatient or inpatient setting<a href="#accordion">[8]</a>.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Medications</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

Oral medications are given as part of the treatment plan to manage the cravings of alcohol. There would definitely be a strong urge to drink during the withdrawal phase.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Disulfiram is given to prevent individuals from drinking alcohol by mounting a physical reaction upon alcohol administration and this includes headaches, flushing, nausea, and vomiting.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Naltrexone is another drug that blocks the receptors in the body on which alcohol acts. Consequently, individuals do not experience the good feeling that is associated with drinking alcohol which decreases their alcohol intake. 
&nbsp;

Acomprosate is also an oral medication that suppresses or manages the alcohol cravings once the individual has quit drinking. 
&nbsp;

Vivitrol, similar to naltrexone, is an injectable medication that is administered once in a month. It is considered to be an effective option since people find it easier and treatment can be consistent because it doesn&#39;t require daily dosing<a href="#accordion">[8]</a>. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Aftercare Programs&nbsp;</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

Continued support is part of alcohol addiction treatment. It involves keeping in touch with patients after the treatment is over and helping them in managing relapses, if any, or challenges that they might be facing. It encourages patients to join support groups and practice lifestyle changes. Moreover, it also offers medical and psychological care whenever a patient needs it<a href="#accordion">[8]</a>.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Psychological Treatment&nbsp;</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

Many individuals dealing with alcohol addiction have profound mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety. These individuals find it very difficult to address their concerns and struggles. Through talk therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) these individuals express the problems they are struggling with and oftentimes it helps in reaching the root cause of alcohol use disorder. Through psychological, behavioral, and talk therapies, these individuals learn strategies to cope with their stressors and help them to have an improved perspective of life. Additionally, it also treats the coexisting mental health disorders in these individuals<a href="#accordion">[8]</a>. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Support Groups</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

Individuals who are dealing with alcohol addiction greatly benefit from attending self-help groups, such as Alcohol Anonymous (AA). It helps them to connect with other people who share a similar journey. Moreover, it helps individuals to learn strategies to cope with challenges that follow alcohol addiction treatment plans.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Support groups help individuals to achieve long-term abstinence from alcohol and assists in recovery from alcohol use disorder<a href="#accordion">[7]</a>. 
&nbsp;

Rehab is the process whereby an individual changes from being addicted and alcohol dependent to recovering and living a healthy and drug-free life. As painful and challenging as it might be, rehabilitation and treatment for alcohol addiction is the only way that can help one break free from the vicious cycle of addiction. 
&nbsp;

Since alcohol and other drug use disorders are on the rise in Pakistan, rehabilitation and addiction treatment centers are needed for the population affected with drug misuse disorders.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Some of rehabilitation centers available in Pakistan are<a href="#accordion">[9][10]</a>: 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Anti Narcotics Force (ANF) Hospitals - located in Islamabad, Karachi, Hyderabad, and Sukkur&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Nishan Foundation - located in Islamabad 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Conclusion

Alcohol addiction is quite a common drug misuse disorder. It makes the individuals enter a vicious cycle of drug abuse and many find it hard to break free from it. While many feel like there's no way out of their alcohol addiction, the truth is that recovery is possible through treatment and rehabilitation.&nbsp;

Key Points

<ul><li>Alcohol addiction is a drug misuse disorder in which individuals start consuming alcohol in excess despite dealing with the negative consequences that ensue with alcohol abuse.</li><li>Alcohol use disorder not only causes psychological and physical dependence, but also negatively affects all the spheres of an individual's life.</li><li>Alcohol addiction presents with a myriad of signs and symptoms that can help identify if someone is dealing with alcohol use disorder.</li><li>Treatment and rehabilitation are the cornerstone to recovery. It includes medications, detox, psychotherapy, and support groups.&nbsp;</li></ul>

[1] Ghazal P. The Growing Problem of Alcoholism in Pakistan:An overview of Current Situation and Treatment Options. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENDORSING HEALTH SCIENCE RESEARCH (IJEHSR). 2015;3(3):15. doi:10.29052/ijehsr.v3.i3.2015.15-21

[2] Alcohol use disorder - Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic.

[3] Alcohol Use Disorder: What It Is, Risks & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic.

[4] Tyler M. Alcohol Addiction: Signs, Complications, and Recovery. Healthline.

[5] Ritchie H, Roser M. Alcohol Consumption. Our World in Data.

[6] Jiang H, Xiang X, Hao W, Room R, Zhang X, Wang X. Measuring and preventing alcohol use and related harm among young people in Asian countries: a thematic review. Glob Health Res Policy. 2018;3(1). doi:10.1186/s41256-018-0070-2

[7] Alcohol misuse - Treatment. nhs.uk.

[8] Alcohol use disorder - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic. Mayoclinic.org.

[9] ANF :: MATRC. Anf.gov.pk.

[10] Best Rehab Centers in Pakistan of 2022 (with Pricing). Luxuryrehabs.com. Accessed September 16, 2022. https://luxuryrehabs.com/pakistan/. Published 2022.

Nawal Adnan

Alcohol poisoning is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when a person drinks large amounts of alcohol in a short time.

It happens when someone engages in binge drinking, which is defined as consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period, usually intending to become intoxicated.

Binge drinking and, consequently, alcohol poisoning are more common than you might think, and they can have serious consequences. 
&nbsp;

Alcohol poisoning occurs when a person consumes a large amount of alcohol, usually over a short period, leading to a high level of alcohol in the bloodstream. When a person drinks too much alcohol, it can affect their body&#39;s ability to function properly.

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines binge drinking as consuming four or more drinks for women and five or more drinks for men in a single session<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.&nbsp;While many people don&rsquo;t experience any adverse effects while engaging in binge drinking, it can lead to alcohol poisoning in some cases. 
&nbsp;

The amount of alcohol required to cause alcohol poisoning varies depending on several factors, including the individual&rsquo;s:

<ul>
	<li>Weight</li>
	<li>Gender</li>
	<li>Tolerance of alcohol 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

However, in general, it&#39;s considered that a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is dangerous and can lead to alcohol poisoning<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.&nbsp;BAC is a measure of the amount of alcohol in a person&#39;s bloodstream, and it&#39;s used to determine whether someone is legally intoxicated. 
&nbsp;

The signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning depend on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, a person simply appears drunk, while in more severe cases, they may lose consciousness or stop breathing altogether. Some common signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning include:

<ul>
	<li>Confusion and disorientation</li>
	<li>Slurred speech</li>
	<li>Slow or irregular breathing</li>
	<li>Low body temperature</li>
	<li>Bluish skin or lips</li>
	<li>Unresponsiveness</li>
	<li>Seizures</li>
	<li>Vomiting</li>
	<li>Dehydration</li>
	<li>Hypoglycemia</li>
	<li>Loss of consciousness 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Note: If you suspect someone is experiencing alcohol poisoning, it&#39;s important to seek medical attention immediately. Alcohol poisoning can quickly become life-threatening when left untreated. 
&nbsp;

<ol>
	<li>According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 2,200 deaths due to alcohol poisoning in the United States in 2019, which is an average of 6 deaths per day<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.</li>
	<li>Among those who died from alcohol poisoning, 76% were males, and the highest death rate was among adults aged 35-64 years<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.</li>
	<li>90% of the alcohol consumed by youth under the age of 21 in the United States is during binge drinking episodes<a href="#accordion">[7]</a>.</li>
	<li>1 in 6 US adults binge drinks<a href="#accordion">[8]</a>. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ol>

Understanding the Harmful Effects of Alcohol Poisoning

Adolescents who drink frequently run a higher chance of developing a variety of issues in the future. According to a study, alcohol dependence is four times more likely to develop in teenagers before the age of 15 than it is in those who start drinking at or after the age of 21<a href="#accordion">[6]</a>.The average age of the first drink, first intoxication, and first alcohol-related problem among adults who became alcoholics were 13, 15, and 20, respectively<a href="#accordion">[6]</a>.&nbsp;Additionally, kids who drink alcohol are more likely to take other drugs and fail to mature emotionally and cognitively, along with getting involved in crime<a href="#accordion">[6]</a>.

Youth who increase heavy drinking between 18 and 24, consistently drinking heavily at least weekly during this period, find it difficult to successfully transition from adolescence to young adulthood. That is, they fail to complete goals regarding marriage, education, employment, and financial independence<a href="#accordion">[6]</a>. 
&nbsp;

Alcohol poisoning can have serious long-term effects, especially if the person experiences brain damage or other complications as a result of the condition. Some potential long-term effects of alcohol poisoning include:

<ul>
	<li>Memory loss and other cognitive problems</li>
	<li>Chronic health problems, such as liver disease and pancreatitis</li>
	<li>Increased risk of certain types of cancer</li>
	<li>Mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

In addition to the long-term effects of alcohol poisoning, binge drinking can also have other negative consequences, including an increased risk of accidents, injuries, and violence. 
&nbsp;

The best way to prevent alcohol poisoning is to avoid binge drinking altogether. Avoid drinking games or other activities that encourage the consumption of alcohol. 
&nbsp;

If someone is experiencing alcohol poisoning, it&#39;s important to seek medical attention immediately. In some cases, treatment may involve hospitalization, especially if the person has stopped breathing or is unconscious. 
&nbsp;

Generally, treatment for alcohol poisoning involves:

<ul>
	<li>Oxygen therapy to help with breathing</li>
	<li>Intravenous (IV) fluids to help prevent dehydration</li>
	<li>Monitoring of vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature</li>
	<li>Administering medications to treat seizures, if necessary</li>
	<li>Inserting a tube into the windpipe to help with breathing, if necessary</li>
	<li>Using a urinary catheter to deal with an incontinency</li>
	<li>Pumping the patient&rsquo;s stomach in some cases 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

It&rsquo;s important to seek medical attention right away. Meanwhile, AVOID doing the following:

<ul>
	<li>Do NOT drink caffeinated drinks or black coffee. It does not counteract the effects of alcohol poisoning.</li>
	<li>Do NOT sleep it off. It&rsquo;s crucial to stay awake during this time since it&rsquo;s possible to lose consciousness while asleep.</li>
	<li>Do NOT take a cold shower. Again, the shock of cold causes a loss of consciousness. On the contrary, cover with a warm blanket to avoid hypothermia.</li>
	<li>Do NOT walk it off. It&rsquo;s not possible to reverse the effects of alcohol poisoning; walking does not increase the speed at which alcohol leaves the body.</li>
	<li>Do NOT lie down. The person has to be up to avoid choking on their own vomit. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Early age and heavy drinking is a worrisome combination. Do people around you deserve that? In fact, do you deserve that? 
&nbsp;

Key Takeaways

<ul>
	<li>Alcohol poisoning is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when a person drinks large amounts of alcohol in a short time.</li>
	<li>It happens when someone engages in binge drinking, which is defined as consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period, usually intending to become intoxicated.</li>
	<li>Some common symptoms include confusion and disorientation, slurred speech, slow or irregular breathing, low body temperature, and loss of consciousness.</li>
	<li>Alcohol poisoning can quickly become life-threatening when left untreated.</li>
	<li>According to a study, alcohol dependence is four times more likely to develop in teenagers before the age of 15 than it is in those who start drinking at or after the age of 21.</li>
	<li>Additionally, kids who drink alcohol are more likely to take other drugs and fail to mature emotionally and cognitively, along with getting involved in crime.</li>
	<li>Youth who increase heavy drinking between 18 and 24, consistently drinking heavily at least weekly during this period find it difficult to successfully transition from adolescence to young adulthood.</li>
	<li>The amount of alcohol required to cause alcohol poisoning varies depending on several factors, including the person&#39;s weight, gender, and tolerance to alcohol.</li>
	<li>Treatment for alcohol poisoning involves: oxygen therapy, intravenous (IV) fluids, and monitoring of vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature.</li>
</ul>

[1] Alcohol poisoning deaths (no date) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

[2] Drinking levels defined (no date) National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

[3] Understanding the dangers of alcohol overdose (no date) National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

[4] Alcohol poisoning (2018) Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.

[5] Symptoms of alcohol poisoning & overdose (how to spot the signs) (2022) American Addiction Centers.

[6] National Research Council (US) and Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Developing a Strategy to Reduce and Prevent Underage Drinking; Bonnie RJ, O'Connell ME, editors. Reducing Underage Drinking: A Collective Responsibility. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2004. 3, Health Consequences of Adolescent Alcohol Involvement.