The Effects of Alcohol
Intoxication can have a number of effects on a person, particularly on the brain, as it is very sensitive to alcohol. Treatment for alcoholism is sometimes necessary for people addicted to this substance. Alcohol has nearly immediate effects on the body. The reason for this is that it requires no digestion, unlike other foods. The higher the blood alcohol content is in the body, the greater the effects of alcohol. We see these varying degrees of intoxication below:
- Euphoria
Difficulty concentrating
Talkative
Lowered inhibitions
Brighter color in the face
Fine motor skills are lacking - Excitement
Senses are dulled
Poor coordination
Drowsy
Beginnings of erratic behavior
Slow reaction time
Impaired judgment - Confusion
Exaggerated emotions
Difficulty walking
Blurred vision
Slurred speech
Pain is dulled - Stupor
Cannot stand or walk
Vomiting
Unconsciousness is possible
Decreased response to stimuli
Apathetic - Coma
Unconscious
Low body temperature
Possible death
Shallow breathing
Slow pulse - Death
Death as a result of respiratory arrest
What is Blood Alcohol Content?
Blood alcohol content (BAC) is the amount of alcohol in the bloodstream. If someone were to have a BAC of .10, this would mean that one-tenth of 1% of the blood in their body is alcohol. The more alcohol a person consumes the more intoxicated and impaired they become. Over time, if alcohol use is frequent, addiction can result. In these cases, alcohol treatment rehab is often needed.
Alcohol percentage is determined by the amount of alcohol consumed, the time in which the alcohol was consumed, and body weight. Eating prior to, or while drinking, may also have temporary affects on BAC, reducing its effects. Typically, men require more alcohol to achieve the same BAC as women. Men require more alcohol to achieve these same effects because they are heavier and have a higher percentage of water per pound in their bodies. Alcohol addiction is problem often recognized far too late, however, once its symtoms are recognized it is important to seek alcoholic treatment from an alcohol rehabilitation center as soon as possible.