If you or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol use, it’s so important to recognize the symptoms of alcohol poisoning and the signs of binge drinking. Alcohol poisoning can have life-threatening consequences, but you or your loved one can get through it with professional help. At ALANA Recovery, we’re here to guide and support you every step of the way at our alcohol rehab in Georgia.
What To Know About Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol abuse is all too common, affecting millions of people worldwide. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that approximately 178,000 deaths in the United States annually are attributed to excessive alcohol use. It’s the leading preventable cause of death in the U.S., and these deaths occur both from long-term alcohol abuse and binge drinking sessions.1
Whether it’s a single night of heavy drinking or years of overuse, alcohol can take a serious toll on a person’s body, emotions, and relationships. Struggling with alcohol often looks like drinking too much too often, putting alcohol before responsibilities, or continuing to drink even when it’s affecting health or other people. Recognizing these patterns is a big first step toward getting the support needed to stop.
What Is Binge Drinking?
Binge drinking is one of the most significant contributors to alcohol poisoning cases. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines binge drinking as a pattern resulting in a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. For men, binge drinking is usually about five drinks in two hours. For women, it’s typically about four.2 Binge drinking can quickly lead to life-threatening situations, so you shouldn’t brush it off and treat it as no big deal.
What Are the Signs of Alcohol Abuse?
Are you concerned about your drinking or worried about someone you care about? Here are a few things to keep an eye on:
- Feeling like you’re drinking more often or more than you want to
- Turning to alcohol to handle stress or tough emotions
- Finding it hard to juggle drinking with work, family, or other responsibilities
- Feeling unwell, shaky, or “off” when you’re not drinking
- Needing more alcohol over time to feel the same effects
- Struggling with tension or conflict in your relationships because of drinking
- Dealing with legal or money troubles tied to alcohol
If this feels familiar, you’re not alone. There’s help. At ALANA Recovery, our alcohol rehab program provides the tools, guidance, and care to help you regain control and build a healthier, happier life.
What Are the Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning?
Knowing the signs of alcohol poisoning could save a life. If someone has had too much to drink, here’s what to watch for:
- They’re confused or having trouble staying awake
- They’re vomiting a lot, which could cause choking or dehydration
- Their breathing is slow or uneven—less than eight breaths a minute
- Their skin feels cold, looks pale, or even has a bluish tint
- They’re having a seizure
- They’ve passed out and you can’t wake them up
If you notice these signs in someone, take them seriously. Alcohol poisoning is dangerous and needs immediate medical help. Don’t wait—act fast!
How Do You Handle Alcohol Poisoning Safely?
If you think someone might have alcohol poisoning, here’s what you can do to help:
- Call 911 right away – Getting medical help is the most important step.
- Don’t force them to vomit – This can cause choking and worsen the situation.
- Stay with them – Try to keep them awake and sitting up if you can.
- Keep them warm – Grab a blanket to make sure they don’t get too cold.
- Lay them on their side – This helps prevent choking if they throw up.
Acting quickly and seeking professional help may mean the difference between life and death.
How Alcohol Rehab Can Help
For those facing challenges with alcohol use, binge-drinking behaviors, or frequent alcohol poisoning risks, support, and treatment can provide a path forward.
At ALANA Recovery, we’re here to help people in Georgia take their first steps toward sobriety. Our outpatient programs combine therapy, skill-building, and peer support to not only address the physical toll of alcohol use but also uncover the emotional triggers and stress that fuel harmful drinking. Whether you need an intensive outpatient program (IOP) or a partial hospitalization program (PHP), we’ll meet you where you are, offering the flexibility you need to keep up with your daily life.
Recovery isn’t just possible—it’s within reach. With the support of our caring team, you can take back control and start building a healthier, happier future. Let’s take that step together.
Reclaim Your Life Today at ALANA Recovery in Georgia
Alcohol poisoning is a serious issue, but with the right support and preparation, it’s possible to prevent future harm and begin the journey to recovery. No one should have to face this alone. If you or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol use in Georgia, don’t wait—reach out to ALANA Recovery. We’re here to help. Call 770.759.7474 or contact our team online to begin a fresh, hopeful chapter of your life.
Footnotes: