In light of recent incidents over the last few weeks, I’d like to talk about alcohol poisoning.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, nerves that control our breathing and the “gag reflexes” we use to rid poisons from our bodies are slowed down by alcohol, to a point that could eventually stop them from functioning properly and lead to coma or death.

Rapid binge drinking (which often happens on a bet or dare) is especially dangerous because one can ingest a fatal dose before becoming unconscious.

There are many myths about ridding alcohol from the body. Some people believe drinking black coffee, showering, walking, and sleeping are ways of “sobering up.” They are not. Time is the only thing that will reverse the effects of alcohol.

One myth of particular concern is “sleeping it off.” Some people believe that once someone has “passed out,” that they are OK and they’ll be better in the morning. However, when someone is passed out, according to the NIAA, alcohol is still circulating through the intestines and stomach. Believing that someone is OK once they are sleeping could be a dangerous assumption; the person is still at risk for coma or death.

Signs of alcohol poisoning are: mental confusion, vomiting, seizures, slow or irregular breathing, and hypothermia. If you suspect someone has alcohol poisoning, call 911.

Death by alcohol poisoning is very real. Don’t take the chance and regret it later, your friend will be happy you cared.

Stephanie Thompson, Rumford

Prevention Coordinator

River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition