2022 is coming to an end and this is when festivities, family gatherings, and parties increase. Many of us look forward to celebrations during the holidays, yet it is also a time when some people are more likely to drink beyond their limits than at other times of the year.
Excessive consumption of alcohol over a short period of time (alcohol poisoning) may lead to the risk of stroke, liver diseases, high blood pressure, risky behaviour, accidents, and possibly death. When a person consumes alcohol faster than the liver can break down the alcohol, the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level in your blood will increase and this will lead to intoxication.
Here are the general effects of BAC increases:
- 0.0 to 0.05 %: Mild Impairment in memory, coordination, and speech.
- 0.06 to 0.15 %: Increased Impairment - Aggression may increase in some people.
- 0.16 to 0.30 %: Severe Impairment - Some symptoms of alcohol poisoning may be present, such as vomiting and loss of consciousness.
- 0.31 to 0.45 %: Life Threatening - Vital functions, such as breathing and heart rate, are significantly depressed.
One way to start early on your new year’s resolution is to kickstart a less harmful drinking culture to change the acceptance of drunkenness, and the problems that come with it. This festive season is a good time to reflect on our drinking culture and the way we drink.
Happy holidays and drink responsibly.