Expert: Amarnath.B - 10/8/2001

Question
Hi,

I have heard lot of people talk about'alcohol poisoning'. I shall be very grateful if you could explain this term to me.

Many thanks for your help,


Shane  

Answer
Hello Shane,

Thanks for the question. Here are some basic facts about 'alcohol poisoning':

The symptoms of poisoning or intoxication from alcohol depend on the type of alcohol.
The effect of ethanol (ethyl alcohol or grain alcohol), contained in alcoholic beverages, is related to its blood level.  Factors such as the amount consumed, the concentration of alcohol in the drink, the time over which it is consumed, and the presence of food in the stomach affect  blood levels.  The effects of acute ethanol intoxication cover a spectrum from giddiness and uninhibited behaviour to slurred speech, muscular incoordination, incoherence, coma and even death.  In addition, chronic use of ethanol can damage many parts of the body including the brain, nerves, heart muscle and liver.  The damage done to vital organs by long-term alcohol abuse also may lead to death.

Other forms of alcohol not intended for human consumption may produce toxic effects specific to the type of alcohol.  Methanol (methyl alcohol or wood alcohol) is used commercially as antifreeze and as a solvent in some paint and varnish.  It is very toxic if ingested--as litle as a few swallows could prove fatal.  Its effects include headache, cramps, convulsions and depressed breathing.  In addition, methanol can damage the optic nerves and cause permanent blindness.
Ethylene glycol is another alcohol found in antifreeze for motor vehicles and in lacquers.  It has effects similar to ethanol but also can cause kidney failure and death.  Isopropyl rubbing alcohol also is toxic and can cause incoordination, stomach irritation, depressed breathing and coma.

Perhaps the most important point to remember is that all forms of alcohol are toxic to some degree.  Those not intended for human consumption may quickly cause death following ingestion.  Ethanol, too, can be fatal in excess or if taken in combination with other central nervous system depressants such as sedatives, tranquilizers, and some pain medications and anticonvulsant medications. In addition, accidents related to alcohol abuse take thousands of lives each year.

I hope the above answer suffices,

Thanks & god bless,


amar B