Many people assume that someone who has had too much alcohol simply needs time to "sleep it off." However, alcohol poisoning is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
Alcohol poisoning occurs when a large amount of alcohol (ethanol) is consumed within a short period, causing alcohol levels in the bloodstream to rise to toxic levels. Excessive alcohol intake suppresses the central nervous system, affecting vital functions including consciousness, breathing, heart function, and the body's ability to regulate temperature.
Importantly, alcohol continues to be absorbed into the bloodstream even after a person has stopped drinking, meaning their condition may continue to worsen long after the last drink. Without prompt medical treatment, alcohol poisoning can result in respiratory failure, choking from vomit (aspiration), coma, permanent brain injury, or even death.
What causes alcohol poisoning?
Alcohol poisoning most commonly occurs following binge drinking, when alcohol is consumed faster than the liver can metabolise it.
It may also occur after ingesting products containing alcohol, including:
- Certain liquid medications
- Mouthwash
- Cooking extracts
- Household products containing alcohol
More toxic alcohols, such as methanol, isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol), and ethylene glycol, can also cause severe poisoning and require emergency medical treatment.
Know the warning signs
Seek emergency medical attention immediately if someone who has been drinking develops any of the following:
- Loss of consciousness or difficulty waking up
- Slow or irregular breathing
- Repeated vomiting, particularly if drowsy or unconscious seizures
- Pale, bluish, or cold skin
- Confusion, disorientation, or inability to respond
Not everyone will develop all of these symptoms. If someone is unconscious or difficult to wake after drinking alcohol, always treat it as a medical emergency.
What should you do?
If you suspect alcohol poisoning:
- Call emergency medical services immediately.
- Stay with the person and monitor their breathing.
If they are unconscious but breathing, place them on their side (recovery position) to reduce the risk of choking.
What should you avoid?
Many common myths can delay life-saving treatment.
❌ Don't give coffee to "sober them up."
❌ Don't encourage them to walk around.
❌ Don't place them in a cold shower or bath.
❌ Don't leave them alone to "sleep it off."
These measures do not lower blood alcohol levels and should never replace emergency medical care.
Early recognition saves lives
At Raffles Medical, we encourage everyone to recognise the warning signs of alcohol poisoning and seek immediate medical attention when they occur. Acting quickly can prevent serious complications and may save a life.
