Alcohol
Alcohol is a general term used to describe a drink that contains a certain amount of ethanol. Alcohol is classified as a depressant which slows down the central nervous system. Effects of alcohol consist of slurred speech, sluggish body movements, inability to think clearly and blackouts.
A person’s Blood Alcohol Concentration BAC describes the percentage of alcohol in the blood. BAC is influenced by the amount of alcohol consumed, the rate of consumption, a person’s body weight, gender and if food was consumed. People who have a BAC above O.O8 or higher is considered legally intoxicated in the state of Massachusetts.
A person’s Blood Alcohol Concentration BAC describes the percentage of alcohol in the blood. BAC is influenced by the amount of alcohol consumed, the rate of consumption, a person’s body weight, gender and if food was consumed. People who have a BAC above O.O8 or higher is considered legally intoxicated in the state of Massachusetts.
The following is equivalent (equal to) 1 drink:
Beer- 12 oz or 1 can; contains 5% ethanol/volume Wine- 4-5 oz; contains; 12-14% ethanol/volume Hard or shelf alcohol- 1 oz (a shot glass); contains 25-75% ethanol/volume PROOF= Equals double the percent ethanol/volume For example, Bacardi 151 (proof) is 76% ethanol/1 oz |
Drinking alcohol may have lasting effects on the body known as a hangover. Hangovers are caused by the production of formaldehyde in the body and its symptoms may include any of the following: tiredness, dizziness, headaches, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, thirst and depression or anxiety. Alcohol causes a decrease in reaction time, difficulty coordinating movements, a decreased ability to plan and use good judgement which typically leads to accidents and unsafe behavior.
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Types of Drinkers:
Binge drinkers consume large amounts of alcohol in a short period of time. Moderate drinkers consume 1-2 drinks per day and may benefit from the antioxidants present in some alcohols (mostly red wine). Social drinkers are those who consume alcohol only when social events; they may be considered a binge drinker. Problem drinkers/Alcoholics begin to experience addiction to alcohol and have professional and/or personal failures. Alcohol poisoning occurs when a high BAC suppresses the central nervous system. Extreme cases can lead to permanent brain damage or death. Health consequences due to excessive alcohol drinking over time can lead to liver damage, heart attacks, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems, some cancers and neurological problems. as well as loss of jobs, support and relationships
Underage drinking accounts for 11% of all alcohol consumed in the United States. It is illegal to drink under the age of 21 due to incomplete brain development. Alcohol is the most commonly used and abused drug in teenagers.
Driving under the influence of alcohol causes many accidents and deaths in the United States each year. Alcohol can also cause secondary harms such as falls and burns, homicides, suicides firearm injuries, electrical shocks, near drowning and violent actions.
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After age 21, the average woman is allowed one drink per day while men are allowed two drinks per day; this person would be considered a moderate or social drinker. Abusive drinking interferes with health or daily life tasks. If a person acquires negative consequences associated with drinking or are psychologically dependent on alcohol they have a drinking problem.
Stages of Substance Abuse
1st – Experimentation
2nd – Regular use
3rd – Tolerance
4th – Dependence and addiction
What is euphoria? What is dysphoria?
When treating Alcoholism, the first step of recovery is detoxification. The use of medications, self-management techniques and support groups can be of assistance. If you were assisting a person to recovery, remember they are an addict and you cannot for a person to change their poor behavior.
Stages of Substance Abuse
1st – Experimentation
2nd – Regular use
3rd – Tolerance
4th – Dependence and addiction
What is euphoria? What is dysphoria?
When treating Alcoholism, the first step of recovery is detoxification. The use of medications, self-management techniques and support groups can be of assistance. If you were assisting a person to recovery, remember they are an addict and you cannot for a person to change their poor behavior.