Acute alcohol intoxication, or alcohol poisoning, can occur after the ingestion of a large amount of alcohol. Inexperienced drinkers, or those sensitive to alcohol, may become acutely intoxicated and suffer serious consequences after ingesting smaller amounts of alcohol. When ingested in larger quantities, alcohol slows body functions, including heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. When alcohol significantly depresses these vital centers, unconsciousness results, this is one step away from coma and possible death.
Many students are surprised to find out that death can occur from too much alcohol.
Most students think that the worst that can happen is they will vomit or pass out, with a hangover the next day. Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning Unconsciousness or semiconsciousness. Slowed or irregular breathing. Slow respiration, eight or less breaths per minute or lapses of more than 10 seconds. Cold clammy or pale or bluish skin.