How to recognize and treat alcohol poisoning
Because alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, drinking too much, too fast, slows some bodily functions (such as heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing) to a dangerous level, causing the drinker to lose consciousness.
Possible signs of alcohol poisoning include:
Unconscious or semiconscious state
Slow respiration—eight or fewer breaths per minute, or lapses between breaths of more than eight seconds
Cold, clammy, pale, or bluish skin
A strong odor of alcohol on the breath and coming from the skin
What to do if someone develops alcohol poisoning
Here’s what to do in an alcohol-poisoning emergency:
Never leave someone who may have alcohol poisoning alone to “sleep it off.”
Call 911 immediately.
Gently turn the person on his or her left side, using a pillow placed at the small of the back to keep him or her in that position. This will help prevent choking should the individual vomit.
Stay with the person until medical help arrives.