Mason Delacroix
There is no quick fix to sobering up from alcohol. The only thing that lowers the concentration of alcohol in your bloodstream is time. However, there are some things you can do to help you feel more alert and appear more sober. Drinking water can help slow down the dehydrating effects of alcohol and eating before and during drinking can help reduce the rate of alcohol processing. Getting plenty of sleep allows your liver time to metabolize the alcohol in your system. While caffeine may help you feel more alert, it does not break down alcohol in the body and may cause you to injure yourself or put yourself in danger, for example, by driving drunk.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Treatment | Medication, support groups, behavioral changes, and lifestyle changes |
| Medications | Naltrexone, acamprosate, topiramate, gabapentin, and disulfiram (Antabuse) |
| Alcohol retention in food | Up to 85% in average dishes, 10% after baking or simmering for 2 hours |
| Alcohol alternatives | Irish creams, root beer, chilled alcohol |
| Complications | Esophageal cancer, alcohol-induced hepatitis, alcohol poisoning, cerebellar degeneration, cirrhosis of the liver, delirium tremens |
| Support | Alcohol and Drug Education Training School (ADETS), Alcohol and Drug Foundation's Path2Help, Alcohol and Drug Support Line, Medicine Line |
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What You'll Learn
Alcohol absorption and intoxication
Alcohol is absorbed and metabolized by the body at different rates, depending on various factors. The absorption of alcohol begins in the stomach, with about 20% of alcohol being absorbed through the stomach into the bloodstream. The remaining 80% is passed into the small intestine, where absorption is faster. The pyloric valve, which separates the stomach from the small intestine, closes when food is present in the stomach, particularly protein and fatty foods, thereby slowing down the absorption of alcohol.
The presence of food in the stomach is a significant factor in slowing down alcohol absorption. Eating high-protein foods along with alcohol or before drinking can help individuals avoid getting too drunk. However, the type of food, whether carbohydrates, fats, or proteins, does not seem to significantly influence blood alcohol concentration. Alcohol mixed with carbonated beverages, such as soda, tonic water, or champagne, is absorbed more rapidly due to increased pressure in the stomach and small intestine, forcing quicker absorption into the bloodstream. Similarly, sugars and juices mixed with alcohol also increase the rate of absorption. On the other hand, mixing alcohol with water or fruit juice slows down the absorption process.
An individual's body weight plays a crucial role in determining the rate of intoxication. People with lower weight tend to feel the effects of alcohol more quickly due to having less tissue to absorb alcohol. Additionally, body composition, including the percentage of body fat, influences intoxication levels. As the percentage of body fat increases, the concentration of alcohol in the lean tissues of the body also increases proportionally.
Biological sex is another factor influencing intoxication. Alcohol is metabolized differently in men and women due to differences in anatomy and body composition. Women tend to experience stronger and longer-lasting effects of alcohol. This may be attributed to higher levels of estrogen, body fat, and lower levels of body water in women compared to men. Moreover, women have lower levels of the enzymes alcohol dehydrogenase and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which are responsible for metabolizing alcohol.
Other factors that can affect the rate of intoxication include dehydration, carbonation, medication or drug interactions, emotional state, and age. Dehydration increases with higher blood alcohol content, as alcohol causes the pituitary gland to block the creation of vasopressin, a hormone that promotes water retention. Carbonated alcoholic drinks increase absorption rates due to the pressure inside the stomach and small intestine. Mixing alcohol with medications or drugs can lead to dangerous interactions and increased effects of both substances. Strong emotions, such as anger, fear, and loneliness, can also contribute to faster impairment. Lastly, older adults tend to get drunk quicker than younger adults due to increased body fat and decreased body water, which affects how their body processes alcohol.
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Alcohol use disorder
The risk of developing AUD depends on several factors, including how much, how often, and how quickly an individual consumes alcohol. Other factors that increase the risk of AUD include drinking at an early age, genetics and family history, and mental health conditions. Research has shown that among individuals aged 26 and older, those who began drinking before turning 15 were more likely to report having AUD in the past year compared to those who started drinking at 21 or older. Additionally, females in this group are at a higher risk than males.
AUD can lead to lasting changes in the brain caused by alcohol misuse, making individuals vulnerable to relapse. However, it is important to note that most people who drink excessively do not have AUD. The severity of AUD is assessed by healthcare professionals using criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). The severity can range from mild (two to three criteria) to moderate (four to five criteria) to severe (six or more criteria).
Treatment options for AUD include behavioural therapies, mutual-support groups, and medications. Three medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to help reduce alcohol consumption and prevent relapse are naltrexone (oral and long-acting injectable), acamprosate, and disulfiram. These medications are non-addictive and can be used alone or in combination with behavioural treatments or mutual-support groups. Behavioural treatments, such as alcohol counselling or talk therapy, aim to change drinking behaviour and are provided by licensed therapists. Mutual-support groups provide peer support for reducing or stopping drinking and are typically available in communities at low or no cost.
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Alcohol poisoning
The treatment for alcohol poisoning typically involves seeking emergency medical help and supporting the person's breathing and hydration until the effects of alcohol wear off. Here are some specific steps that are commonly recommended:
- Call for Emergency Services: If you suspect someone is experiencing alcohol poisoning, it is crucial to call your local emergency services or take them to the nearest emergency room. Alcohol poisoning can be life-threatening, so immediate medical attention is necessary.
- Keep Them Awake and Breathing: It is important to stay with the person and keep them awake. If they are unconscious, place them in the recovery position and ensure they are breathing properly. There is a risk of choking on vomit, so keeping them on their side is essential.
- Provide Water: If the person is awake, give them small sips of water to keep them hydrated. Do not provide coffee or caffeinated drinks as they can cause dehydration.
- Oxygen Therapy: Medical professionals may administer oxygen through a nasal cannula (a flexible tube clipped to the nose) or intubation (a small tube inserted into the windpipe) if the person has difficulty breathing.
- Stomach Pumping and Blood Filtration: In severe cases, medical providers may use a tube to pump the stomach and remove toxins. If the person's kidneys are affected, dialysis may be required to filter alcohol from the blood.
- Hospital Monitoring and Fluids: Hospital admission is often necessary for alcohol poisoning. Medical professionals will monitor vital signs and may administer fluids through an intravenous (IV) drip to support hydration and help with any complications.
It is important to note that the treatment for alcohol poisoning focuses on managing symptoms and supporting the body's functions while the alcohol is metabolized. The best way to prevent alcohol poisoning is to drink in moderation or abstain from alcohol altogether. The liver takes about an hour to process one unit of alcohol, so drinking slowly and spacing drinks can help prevent alcohol poisoning. Additionally, eating before drinking and mixing alcohol with water or fruit juice can slow the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream.
Additionally, resources such as SAMHSA's National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP (4357)) offer free, confidential referrals for individuals facing alcohol-related issues.
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Short-term and long-term health effects
Alcohol is a depressant, which means that when it reaches the brain, it slows down the body's systems. The short-term effects of alcohol vary depending on factors such as age, gender, weight, and the type of alcohol consumed. Initially, a person may feel relaxed, giddy, or uninhibited. However, as they consume more alcohol, they may become intoxicated, and their ability to make decisions and stay in control may be impaired. Alcohol can also influence a person's mood, making them feel down or aggressive.
The body absorbs alcohol relatively quickly, but it takes longer to eliminate it. The liver typically needs about an hour to process one drink, and consuming multiple drinks in a short period can lead to a buildup of alcohol in the body, putting pressure on the liver, digestive system, cardiovascular system, and other functions. This pressure can cause illness and, in severe cases, death. It also increases the risk of blackouts, especially when drinking on an empty stomach.
In the long term, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to alcohol dependence or addiction. Alcohol misuse is associated with various health problems, including liver disease, cardiomyopathy, nerve damage, and high blood pressure. It can also cause heart arrhythmias, orthostatic hypotension, digestive problems, and a weakened immune system. Alcohol misuse can further contribute to mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, learning and memory issues, and relationship problems.
Excessive drinking includes binge drinking, heavy drinking, and any drinking during pregnancy or by individuals under the age of 21. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can result in fetal alcohol syndrome in the child. Additionally, alcohol increases the risk of developing several types of cancer, including head and neck cancers, oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx cancers.
Alcohol poisoning is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when there is a high level of alcohol in the bloodstream, affecting vital functions such as breathing and consciousness. Treatment for alcohol poisoning may include oxygen therapy, stomach pumping, and blood filtration in severe cases.
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Factors influencing intoxication
Several factors influence the level of intoxication a person experiences when consuming alcohol. Firstly, the amount and pace of alcohol consumption are significant. Consuming alcohol on an empty stomach leads to quicker absorption into the bloodstream, resulting in faster intoxication. Conversely, ingesting alcohol after a large meal slows down absorption, delaying the onset of intoxication. The type of drink also matters; alcohol mixed with water or fruit juice is absorbed more slowly, while mixing alcohol with energy drinks can be dangerous as it masks intoxication and places opposing stressors on the body.
Individual characteristics, such as weight, age, and gender, also play a role in intoxication levels. Individuals with lower weight tend to experience the effects of alcohol more quickly due to having less tissue to absorb it. Similarly, older adults tend to have increased body fat and decreased body water, which affects how their body processes alcohol, making them more susceptible to intoxication. Additionally, women generally have lower alcohol dehydrogenase levels, the enzyme responsible for metabolizing alcohol, leading to prolonged presence in the bloodstream and faster intoxication.
Psychological and social factors can also influence intoxication levels. Strong emotions like anger, fear, or loneliness can hasten impairment, and expectations can magnify the psychological and social effects of alcohol. Furthermore, lack of sleep or fatigue can intensify the impact of alcohol, with sleep deprivation of four nights in a row causing two drinks to feel like six. Altitude is another factor, with "thin air" at high altitudes enhancing the effects of alcohol. Lastly, medication or recreational drug use can significantly influence intoxication levels, sometimes leading to fatal consequences when mixed with alcohol.
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Frequently asked questions
Time is the only way to truly sober up. Getting a good night's sleep will help, as it gives the liver time to metabolize the alcohol in your system.
No. While caffeine and a cold shower may make you feel more alert, they do not speed up the metabolism of alcohol.
Caffeine and exercise may help you feel more awake, but they will not eliminate alcohol from your blood.
Bananas are high in potassium, an electrolyte lost when drinking alcohol. Porridge is also a common food to help sober up, as well as watery fruits like oranges and watermelon.
For every alcoholic drink, have a full glass of water. This will slow down the dehydrating effects of alcohol. Eating before and during drinking can also help reduce the rate of alcohol processing.
