Alcohol is a depressant and slows down the central nervous system. This affects your breathing and gag reflex. Too much alcohol will eventually stop these body functions altogether, leading to a coma or death.
Signs of Alcohol Overdose:
- Vomiting
- Extreme confusion, stupor, or you can’t wake them up
- Pale, clammy skin
- Slow/irregular breathing
- Seizures
What to do:
- Do not leave that person to “sleep it off”. A person’s alcohol level can continue to rise even after they’ve stopped drinking and their symptoms can also continue to get worse. They should never be left alone!
- Roll them on their side to prevent choking in case vomiting starts. A person can vomit even when they are passed-out.
- Call 911! There is NO CHARGE to call an ambulance & have the EMT tell you if your friend needs to go to the hospital.