Alcohol blackouts are dangerous and can have serious consequences. Blackouts occur when a person consumes large amounts of alcohol, typically in a short period of time, and their brain is unable to create new memories. This means that the individual may engage in activities or make decisions while under the influence of alcohol that they will not remember later on.
Vertava Health’s alcohol addiction treatment understands how hazardous alcohol-induced blackouts can be. We are here to help you or a loved one regain your health and safety. Contact us at 844.470.0410 today.
What Is a Blackout?
A blackout is a temporary period of memory loss that occurs when someone has consumed excessive amounts of alcohol. During a blackout, the individual’s brain is unable to form new memories, leading to gaps in their recollection of events.
Blackouts are caused by high levels of alcohol consumption, which can impair the brain’s ability to function properly. As a person continues to drink, their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) rises, resulting in more severe and longer-lasting blackouts.
At What BAC Is Blackout Drunk?
A person can experience a blackout at any BAC level, but it is most common when their BAC reaches 0.15% or higher. This is almost twice the legal limit for driving in most states.
However, everyone’s tolerance to alcohol is different, and factors such as weight, gender, and overall health can impact how quickly someone becomes intoxicated and experiences a blackout.
How Long Do Blackouts Last?
The duration of a blackout can vary greatly, from a few minutes to several hours. In some cases, the entire night’s events may be forgotten.
It is important to note that blackouts are not the same as passing out from alcohol consumption. During a blackout, the individual may appear conscious and able to function, but they
Risks And Dangers Of Alcohol-Induced Blackouts
The dangers of alcohol blackouts may include:
- Alcohol dependence
- Alcohol poisoning
- Acts of violence (homicide, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and suicide)
- Cancer (breast, colon, esophagus, liver, mouth, and throat)
- Chronic cardiovascular problems (heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke)
- Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs)
- Liver disease
- Memory and learning problems
- Unprotected sex
- Unplanned pregnancy
- Sexually transmitted diseases
Many people who struggle with alcohol use or addiction attempt to hide it. However, if a person looks closely, certain signs may help them discover that their loved one has a drinking problem.
Signs Of Alcohol Use And Addiction
When drinking gets out of control, and as a person moves closer to addiction, certain behavioral signs may point to an alcohol use disorder. A person may hide alcohol and lie about their drinking habits during this time or become defensive when asked about their drinking.
Despite damage to their health, career, and relationships, a person may continue to drink. In many cases, a person will begin to lose interest in activities or hobbies they once enjoyed.
Many people will struggle to control the amount they drink, fighting frequent and compulsive urges to drink more (cravings). As a person begins drinking on a regular basis, they may begin to develop a tolerance and need more alcohol to create the pleasurable effect they seek.
In addition to these changes, certain physical and mental signs of alcohol use and addiction may become apparent:
- Acting in uncharacteristic ways
- Anxiety
- Appetite changes
- Blurred or double vision
- Depression
- Disrupted sleep
- Mood shifts
- Slurred speech
- Violent behavior
Without help, addiction can dismantle a person’s life, health, and relationships. Fortunately, with the right combination of treatments, recovery from an alcohol addiction is possible.
Contact Vertava Health’s Alcohol Addiction Treatment Now
Don’t wait for alcohol blackouts to have serious consequences in your life. Contact Vertava Health today and take the first step towards recovery. Our team of professionals is dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction and lead healthy, fulfilling lives. So don’t hesitate to reach out to us 844.470.0410 now and let us guide you towards a brighter future free from the dangers of alcohol use.
