Alcohol poisoning is a serious, life threatening condition. A person experiencing the condition consumed too much alcohol in a small amount of time, often as the result of binge drinking--consuming five or more drinks in rapid concession. The Mayo Clinic states it is not necessary for all symptoms of alcohol poisoning to be present before seeking medical attention. Treating alcohol poisoning includes respiratory therapy, intravenous fluids and vitamins until the body no longer contains high amounts of alcohol.
Respirations
Decreased respirations are common in a person experiencing alcohol poisoning. Breaths may be shallow and less than eight per minute. Breathing may be irregular with 10 seconds or more occurring between each breath. Due to decreased oxygen levels, a person's skin may appear slightly blue or purple toned.
Alert Level
A person may be unconscious or semi-conscious. It may be difficult to wake a person up---a stupor or coma-like-state is common. An unconscious person should never be left alone. The Mayo Clinic states that alcohol continues to be released in the body, even if alcohol is no longer being consumed. If a person is experiencing alcohol poisoning he will simply not sleep off the effects---medical attention is critical.
Vomiting
Uncontrollable vomiting may occur. Alcohol poisoning causes a decreased gag reflex which leads to choking or possibly death. A person should not be encouraged to vomit to rid the body of alcohol. Besides choking, increased vomiting may cause a person to aspirate vomit into his lungs, causing further complications and injury. A person should be encouraged to sit up or lay on her side if vomiting.
Additional Symptoms
The body may go into a state of shock due to low blood sugar levels known as hypoglycemia. Seizures occur if blood sugar is at a very low level. Heart beats become irregular or the heart stops beating altogether. Skin becomes cool and clammy to touch. The body becomes severely dehydrated due to the high level of alcohol in the body; permanent brain damage or even death can result.
