Risks of Drug & Acohol Overdose
Drug & alcohol abuse and overdose: the risks
Developing an addiction to drugs or alcohol can wreak havoc on an individual’s life. Regardless of the type of substance that an individual is using, the repercussions of that use can cause monumental devastation. Careers can be placed in jeopardy, relationships can suffer, and one’s mental health can deteriorate. Furthermore, the longer that substance abuse continues, the more at risk individuals are of experiencing an overdose, which has the potential to be deadly.
An overdose occurs when an individual ingests more of substance than his or her body is capable of appropriately metabolizing. There are some instances in which the person’s body will attempt to get rid of the excess substance, typically by vomiting, but in cases when this is unsuccessful, the outcome can be tragic.
Overdoses can occur when an individual ingests too much of a single substance, or when someone ingests a combination of substances. In either event, emergency medical attention must be sought immediately in order to prevent a grave outcome.
What Are The Signs?
The signs of drug & alcohol overdose
The signs that could indicate that someone has overdosed will vary based on the particular type of substance or substances that one has consumed. However, some general signs that could indicate that someone is experiencing an overdose can include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Dry mouth
- Fever
- Changes in breathing
- Chest pain
- Agitation
- Confusion
- Rapid eye movement
- Muscle cramping
- Drowsiness
- Loss of coordination
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Muscle spasms
- Hypothermia
- Restlessness
- Loss of color to one’s lips, skin, and fingernails
- Discolored tongue
- Delayed response to stimuli
- Hallucinations
- Hypotension
- Psychosis
- Weakened pulse
- Dilated or constricted pupils
- Catatonia
- Seizures
- Lapsing into a coma
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Organ failure
Addiction Overdose: What To Do?
What to do if a person near Minneapolis & St. Paul, MN is showing signs of drug or alcohol overdose
If someone displays any symptoms of overdose, it is imperative that 9-1-1 is contacted as quickly as possible. If you are unsure as to whether or not an overdose has actually occurred, it is still best to err on the side of caution and contact emergency medical personnel.
Whether it is you or someone else who has overdosed, it is extremely beneficial to provide attending medical personnel with the following information, if you are able to do so:
- The drug or drugs that were consumed
- The amount of the drug or drugs that were consumed
- The specific signs that were exhibited that led you to believe an overdose had occurred
- Whether or not an overdose has previously occurred
- Whether or not any medical conditions are present
- Whether or not medications are consumed on a regular basis
If the information mentioned above is unknown, it does not mean that appropriate interventions will not be made. Medical professionals are trained in how to effectively handle such situations; yet, providing them with this information may simply help to speed up the process of administering care.
While it is possible for an overdose to occur accidentally, more often than not, it is indicative of the fact that someone is struggling with an addiction. In such cases, it is imperative that comprehensive treatment is received in order for the addictions to be put to rest.
At our residential rehab near Minneapolis & St. Paul, Minnesota, we recognize the difficulties that arise when individuals try to overcome an addiction to drugs or alcohol. For this reason, we are pleased to offer all-inclusive rehab for men and women who desire to put an end to their addictions once and for all. At Burkwood, the team of experienced and compassionate professionals works tirelessly to ensure that each person who is entrusted into their care is met with the utmost respect and dignity. Individualized treatment plans are supplied to every person, providing them with the customized care that is tailored to meet their unique needs and help them reach their specific rehab goals.
If you or someone you care about is suffering from an addiction to drugs and/or alcohol, please reach out to the dedicated staff at Burkwood Treatment Center today.
