Blood Alchohol Level and the Risk of Death

by | Feb 28, 2023 | Traffic School

Drunk driving is one of the biggest factors behind fatal crashes.

Blood Alcohol Level Effects and Deaths

Drinking alcohol is a common social activity for many people. However, excessive drinking can lead to serious consequences, including death. One of the key factors that determine the effects of alcohol on the body is the blood alcohol level (BAL), which is the amount of alcohol present in the blood. In this article, we will discuss the effects of different BALs and the risks of death associated with excessive drinking.

Effects of Different Blood Alcohol Levels

Blood alcohol levels are measured as a percentage of alcohol in the blood. In the United States, the legal limit for driving is a BAL of 0.08%. However, even lower BALs can have negative effects on the body. Here are the effects of different BALs:

  • 0.02-0.03%: At this level, most people will feel relaxed and mildly euphoric. They may experience a slight impairment of judgment and a decrease in inhibitions.
  • 0.04-0.06%: At this level, people may start to feel a bit more intoxicated. They may experience a loss of coordination, slower reflexes, and difficulty concentrating.
  • 0.07-0.09%: At this level, people are legally intoxicated for driving purposes. They may experience blurred vision, slurred speech, and a lack of coordination.
  • 0.10-0.12%: At this level, people may experience significant impairment of judgment and motor skills. They may become emotional and have difficulty speaking coherently.
  • 0.13-0.15%: At this level, people are significantly impaired and may have difficulty walking and standing. They may experience nausea, vomiting, and memory loss.
  • 0.16-0.19%: At this level, people are at high risk of alcohol poisoning. They may experience severe impairment of motor skills, confusion, and blackouts.
  • 0.20% or higher: At this level, people are at a very high risk of alcohol poisoning, which can be fatal. They may experience respiratory depression, unconsciousness, and death.

Risks of Death

Excessive drinking can lead to a number of health risks, including liver disease, pancreatitis, and certain types of cancer. However, one of the most immediate risks associated with drinking is the risk of death. In the United States, alcohol is the third leading preventable cause of death, accounting for approximately 88,000 deaths each year.

There are a number of factors that can increase the risk of death associated with drinking, including the amount of alcohol consumed, the speed at which it is consumed, and the individual’s age, weight, and overall health. Other factors, such as mixing alcohol with other drugs or medications, can also increase the risk of death.

Alcohol poisoning is a particularly dangerous consequence of excessive drinking. This occurs when a person’s BAL reaches a level that is toxic to the body, leading to respiratory depression, seizures, and even death. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning include confusion, vomiting, seizures, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect someone is experiencing alcohol poisoning, seek medical attention immediately.

Conclusion

While drinking alcohol can be a fun and social activity, excessive drinking can lead to serious consequences, including death. The effects of alcohol on the body are determined by the blood alcohol level, and even relatively low levels of alcohol can impair judgment and coordination. It’s important to be aware of the risks associated with drinking and to drink responsibly. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, seek help from a healthcare professional.