Binge-Drinking – The Quickest Path to Alcohol Poisoning

Binge Drinking in the US

Unfortunately, for many people suffering with alcoholism, there is no middle-ground between a single drink and a night of binge-drinking. Because of alcoholism, even a quiet night out can quickly lead to excessive binge drinking, and eventually overdose. The Center for Disease Control defines binge drinking as 4 or more drinks for a woman, 5 for a man, enough to exceed the legal blood alcohol level for most people. Typically, binge drinkers will drink 8 or more drinks in single session, far exceeding recommended guidelines.

Alcohol Poisoning

In the US alone, there are approximately 88,000 alcohol-related deaths a year and alcohol poisoning alone kills about 6 people a day, mostly men. As much as 30% of these deaths were related to alcoholism. Alcohol poisoning can be distinguished by a variety of physical signs, such as unconsciousness, vomiting, slow or irregular breathing, seizures, and hypothermia (which can result in bluish skin).

What to do if Experiencing Alcohol Poisoning

The most important step to avoiding alcohol poisoning is simply avoiding an alcohol overdose. If you or your friends are out drinking, always have a responsible, sober party who can not only track your drinking and look out for excessive intoxication, but who understands the signs of alcohol poisoning. Immediately call 911 and get medical help for anyone experiencing slow breathing, unconsciousness, vomiting or blue skin. Avoid binge drinking, and have a clear understanding of your physical limits.

Treating Alcoholism

Excessive drinking is just one sign of alcoholism. If you are finding it difficult to get through the day without a drink, not being able to avoid binge drinking on a night out, or if you’re finding yourself accommodating your drinking above other goals and responsibilities, it is worth your time and health to speak with a specialist. At Experience Recovery, we have use modern, clinically proven techniques to help you define your own road to recovery. Whether you’d prefer an intensive, in-house experience designed to immediately quit drugs or alcohol, or if you’re looking for something that caters more closely to a busy schedule, we have options that work around your own track to success.

In many cases, a structured, residential treatment program can provide the safety and accessibility needed to break years’ worth of alcoholism and dependency. This option is critical for those in serious constraints, such as patients facing financial crisis, health issues, or frequent blackouts for binge drinking. But it’s also great for any level of dependency, because through residential treatment we are not only able to treat the disease directly, but also work on essential skills for maintaining positive energy and sustained sobriety. Residential treatment is the most effective and comprehensive option, which is why we highly recommend it.

Other Alcohol Abuse Treatment Options

Our Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) are great supplements to in-house residential care. Through PHP, we are able to offer part-time services to those in need who no longer need 24-hour care. While every patient has individual needs, this treatment option typically revolves around 6-hour treatment sessions, 5 times a week with education, group therapy, and individual one-on-one sessions.

Likewise, our Intensive Outpatient treatments can provide data-driven, evidence-based support to otherwise busy individuals who can’t afford the time for a full in-house recovery program.

If you’re curious about the options available to you, or if you know someone who may benefit from our services, please give us a call at (800) 970-3973.