Alcohol coma is an extremely dangerous, life-threatening condition. It occurs when the concentration of alcohol in the blood exceeds the body's ability to metabolize it, leading to profound impairment of consciousness and even complete loss of consciousness. Those most at risk are individuals who drink large amounts of alcohol in a short time, as well as those with chronic addiction. Contrary to appearances, this is not a rare phenomenon. Every year, hundreds of cases result in hospitalization and even death.
What is alcohol coma?
Alcohol coma occurs as a result of acute ethyl alcohol poisoning. In this state, there is significant suppression of central nervous system function, resulting in loss of reflexes, deep unconsciousness, respiratory failure, and in extreme cases, circulatory arrest. It's important to know the difference between alcohol coma and brief loss of consciousness, such as after drinking large amounts of alcohol. In the case of ordinary fainting, the person may be difficult to wake, but responds to stimuli such as pain or sounds. In contrast, in a coma there is no response to external stimuli, and vital functions may be seriously impaired. It is often accompanied by neurological and metabolic complications.Alcohol coma vs. hepatic coma – what's the difference?
Hepatic coma (also known as hepatic encephalopathy) is a set of symptoms resulting from failure of this organ. When the liver stops properly filtering toxins from the blood, substances such as ammonia penetrate the brain, leading to disturbances of consciousness, personality, and cognitive functions. In severe cases, deep coma develops. This condition most commonly occurs in people with liver cirrhosis, which is mostly caused by alcohol abuse. Both conditions are life-threatening and require immediate medical intervention. The difference lies in the fact that alcohol coma is the result of a single acute poisoning, while hepatic coma is the result of long-term damage to the body caused by chronic drinking.Alcohol poisoning – acute overdose and coma
The most common cause of alcohol coma is acute ethyl alcohol poisoning, meaning drinking a large amount in a short time. Intoxication quickly transitions to a toxic state when the level of substance in the blood exceeds the body's metabolic capabilities. At concentrations above 4‰, respiratory disturbances, weakened heart function, blood pressure drop, and loss of consciousness may occur. Alcohol acts as a depressant on the central nervous system, gradually shutting down its functions one by one – from balance disorders to paralysis of the respiratory center.Why is alcohol from illegal sources dangerous?
Alcohol from illegal sources poses a serious threat because it may contain methanol – a toxic industrial alcohol that even in small quantities leads to coma, brain damage, blindness, and often death. Produced without sanitary control, such beverages may contain harmful chemical contaminants such as solvents or fusel oils, as well as unknown concentrations of ethanol, which increases the risk of overdose. Unlike legal alcohol, which is subject to quality standards, illegal drinks are completely unpredictable. Even a small amount can trigger acute poisoning, loss of consciousness, and alcohol coma. Particularly vulnerable are people with addiction who turn to cheaper, unsafe sources.Alcohol-related brain damage and coma
In people with long-term alcohol addiction, chronic brain damage occurs, which increases the risk of falling into a coma even at lower doses. Disturbances in vitamin metabolism (especially thiamine), toxic effects of ethanol on neurons, and micro-damage lead to a decrease in neurological reserve. In such cases, alcohol can more easily cause disorientation, loss of consciousness, and in extreme cases also deep coma. This risk increases when liver failure or failure of other organs is simultaneously present.Symptoms of alcohol coma – how to recognize them?
Early recognition of alcohol coma symptoms can save lives. This condition usually develops as a result of consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short time and can progress very quickly – from drowsiness to complete loss of consciousness.Early symptoms
- slurred, unclear speech
- difficulty maintaining balance
- excessive drowsiness, slowed reactions
- cold, pale or bluish skin
- shallow, irregular breathing.
Advanced symptoms
- no response to voice, touch, pain
- deep unconsciousness
- absence of pupillary reflexes to light
- very slow pulse, pressure drop
- seizures, body flaccidity
- possible vomiting while unconscious (risk of choking).
How to distinguish alcohol coma from other conditions?
Alcohol coma can easily be confused with:- stroke (similar loss of consciousness, speech disorders)
- hepatic coma (in people with liver diseases)
- other poisonings (e.g., medications, drugs).
What to do if you suspect alcohol coma?
Call 112 or 999 immediately if:- the person is unresponsive and cannot be woken
- they have breathing problems or stop breathing
- they have cold, bluish skin
- seizures or vomiting occur while unconscious.
How to avoid alcohol coma?
The most effective way to prevent alcohol coma is to avoid excessive drinking, especially in a short period of time. Consuming large doses of alcohol, particularly without food, hydration, and in a state of exhaustion, significantly increases the risk of acute body poisoning. It is precisely rapid, uncontrolled drinking that most often leads to loss of consciousness and life-threatening situations. It's worth knowing and following the recommended moderate alcohol doses and remembering that tolerance is individual and changes over time. Particular caution should be exercised by older people, the chronically ill, those taking medications, and people after breaks in drinking – the risk of overdose is then significantly higher. If difficulties in controlling the amount of alcohol consumed arise, professional help should be sought as soon as possible. Effective forms of support include alcohol detoxification, which safely cleanses the body of toxins, as well as addiction therapy, which helps understand the mechanisms of the disease and rebuild the ability to function soberly. Early intervention gives the greatest chances of avoiding complications such as alcohol coma, organ damage, or permanent neurological changes.What should be done to avoid alcohol coma?
In avoiding complications related to alcohol consumption, the most important thing is awareness of the threat both among drinking people and their environment. It's worth knowing the limits of safe consumption, avoiding excessive drinking, and not turning to alcohol from uncertain sources. Equally important is a quick response to the first symptoms of poisoning – the faster help is provided, the greater the chances of avoiding permanent damage. If independent limitation of drinking proves impossible, professional therapeutic help should not be delayed. Addiction treatment is an important step in preventing relapses and serious health consequences.:::cta Need help fighting addiction? Our specialists are ready to help you. Call or schedule an online appointment. Call: 880 808 880 | Schedule appointment :::
