Alcohol is often associated with celebrations and socializing but also correlates with an increased risk of injury. It is essential to understand the potential risks and dangers that accompany excessive alcohol consumption so you can exercise caution and prevent yourself or a loved one from alcohol-related injuries.
If you struggle to moderate your alcohol consumption, it may be time to consider getting help for addiction. Promises Brazos Valley’s alcohol detox program can help you overcome dependence on alcohol and get through withdrawal safely. Contact us at 979.426.0086 or complete our online form to learn more about our residential and outpatient treatment options.
How Does Alcohol Increase the Risk of Injuries?
Excessive alcohol consumption drastically increases the risk of injuries due to its effects on the body and mind. Drinking alcohol impairs:
- Balance
- Coordination
- Judgment
- Reaction time
As a result of this impairment, you will be more susceptible to various types of injuries. Additionally, alcohol can lead to a false sense of confidence and decreased inhibitions, making you more prone to engage in risky behaviors that can harm you and those around you.
What Are the Most Common Alcohol-Related Injuries?
Since alcohol impairs your judgment and motor skills, it is affiliated with an increased risk of certain types of injuries, such as:
Falls
Excessive alcohol consumption can impact balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falls and fractures. Someone under the influence may be more likely to have a slip-and-fall accident resulting in severe injuries like broken bones, sprained ligaments, or head trauma. And because alcohol slows your reaction time, it makes it less likely that you will be able to catch yourself in time to prevent a fall or keep it from being as severe.
Assault
Alcohol can increase aggression and violence in some. This helps explain why fights, arguments, and altercations are more likely to happen when people drink. Whether or not you are consuming alcohol, if you are around others drinking heavily, you run the risk of being a victim of someone else’s violence.
Car Accidents
Car accidents are among the most common alcohol-related injuries, leading to severe consequences, including permanent injury and death. The combination of slowed reaction time, impaired judgment, and dulled motor skills significantly increases the risk of getting into an accident if you operate a vehicle while under the influence.
And it does not require drinking heavily to affect your ability to drive safely. Although it can take three to five drinks within an hour to reach a blood alcohol content level of 0.08%, considered legally drunk in the United States, your driving can be impaired after just one drink.
Alcohol Poisoning
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a severe condition known as alcohol poisoning. If someone has alcohol poisoning, you may notice signs like:
- Vomiting
- Slowed breathing
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
Without immediate medical intervention, alcohol poisoning can be life-threatening.
Drowning
Swimming and other water-related activities can be hazardous when you are consuming alcohol. Drowning is much more likely when your judgment and coordination are impaired by alcohol. Operating a boat or other watercraft when drinking is also more dangerous, as you are more likely to get into an accident.
Lower Your Risk of Injuries by Quitting Alcohol at Promises Brazos Valley
The most common alcohol-related injuries can sometimes be severe and potentially fatal, so you must seek professional help if you cannot reduce heavy drinking. You can count on a welcoming, judgment-free environment when you choose Promises Brazos Valley for your treatment. Contact us at 979.426.0086 to discuss our alcohol addiction treatment options and how we can help you stay safe.