The holiday season is upon us and people will be gathering to celebrate. The Michigan Poison and Drug Information Center at the Wayne State University School of Medicine hopes everyone enjoys this holiday season, and they can by taking steps to reduce the risks associated with alcohol use and unexpected exposure to alcohols.

Those who overconsume alcohol can experience negative health effects and consequences. Injuries from falls and vehicle accidents are common results of alcohol use and abuse. Individuals may underestimate the time it takes for alcohol’s effects to occur. This can lead to greater alcohol consumption and prolonged adverse symptoms.

ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION AND EFFECTS
Alcohol depresses the central nervous system. The intensity of the effects is directly related to the amount of alcohol consumed. The amount of alcohol in an alcoholic beverage is not determined by the amount of liquid. Alcohol content is measured by percentages. For instance, a 12-ounce beer may contain 5% alcohol and a typical five-ounce glass of wine usually contains 12% alcohol. A 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof liquor contains 40% alcohol. Mixing alcohol with other beverages does not decrease the amount of alcohol consumed. It may only decrease the discomfort associated with consuming alcoholic beverages with higher alcohol content and the time taken to consume the beverage. This can be deceiving and lead to lapses in judgment resulting in greater alcohol consumption.

People who should not consume alcohol include:
•    Any person younger than 21 years of age 
•    Pregnant women
•    Anyone who plans to operate a vehicle
•    Anyone who is in recovery from alcoholism
•    Anyone who has been told to abstain from alcohol for medical reasons, including use of certain medications

Anyone taking prescription or over-the-counter medication for any reason should check with their health care provider before consuming alcoholic beverages.

Small children who consume alcoholic beverages are at a much greater risk for poisoning. A 2-year-old child who unintentionally consumes alcohol can experience significant central nervous system depression and low blood sugar. Children may also experience respiratory depression, seizures, coma and even death following alcohol consumption.

Underage consumption of alcohol results in more than 189,000 emergency room visits and 3,500 deaths each year in the United States. Teens and young adults under 21 years of age are more likely to binge drink or consume four or more alcoholic beverages in a short period of time. Binge drinking is directly related to the high rate of alcohol poisoning among youth who consume alcohol. Alcohol use in this demographic is associated with cognitive impairment, academic difficulties, and increased risk of alcohol use disorder in youth and into adulthood.

ALCOHOL POISONING
Alcohol poisoning is the immediate result of excessive alcohol consumption over a short period of time. It is estimated that six people die each day from alcohol poisoning in the United States. Excessive consumption decreases brain function and can impact critical functions like breathing, heart rate and body temperature control. Other signs of alcohol poisoning include vomiting, seizures and inability to wake. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek care in an emergency room immediately or call 911 for help.

ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE – LONG-TERM RISKS
Alcohol use disorder can lead to the development of chronic and irreversible health problems. People who struggle with AUD can be at greater risk during the holiday season. People with AUD have developed the following serious health issues:
•    High blood pressure
•    Heart disease and stroke
•    Liver disease and digestive problems
•    Cancer
•    Immune deficiency
•    Cognitive impairment
•    Dementia
•    Mental health and social problems

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends continued precautions to reduce the risks of contracting and spreading the coronavirus during your gatherings. Although washing hands often and properly is preferred, hand sanitizer is an acceptable alternative when soap and water are unavailable at your celebrations. Effective alcohol-based hand sanitizers should contain at least 60% ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration continues to inform the public about recalled hand sanitizers containing substances that may be highly toxic, ineffective or contaminated. Children and adults who drink hand sanitizer may develop symptoms requiring treatment in an emergency room. Keep hand sanitizers out of reach of children and others who do not understand use of these products. 

The Michigan Poison and Drug Information Center at the Wayne State University School of Medicine hopes everyone safely enjoys the holiday season with loved ones. If you drink, be responsible and know your limit. If you have questions or need more information about the effects of alcohol, call the center day or night at  1-800-222-1222.