Intoxication
Intoxication is a temporary and reversible condition that affects the central nervous system after a person ingests certain substances, such as alcohol or drugs. Intoxication affects judgment, the ability to think clearly, and behavior.
People who are intoxicated may become belligerent, aggressive (including sexually aggressive), or quiet and may not be able to perform work, family, or social responsibilities. Physical signs of intoxication include slurred speech, clumsiness, and problems with memory and attention. Some people who are intoxicated pass out. Severe intoxication can be a serious threat to health, and it can even cause death.
How do you know if an intoxicated person needs help?
Signs that an intoxicated person might need medical attention include:
- An injury. An intoxicated person may not feel pain normally. So they may not be aware of an injury or realize how serious it may be. It is not uncommon for an intoxicated person to vomit once. But an intoxicated person who is confused or not acting normally and vomits more than once may have a more serious problem, such as a head injury.
- Signs of alcohol poisoning. These include vomiting, confusion, slow or irregular breathing, and the inability to be awakened.
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