Recognizing signs of overdose could save a life. Different substances have different signs of overdose. For example, an alcohol overdose may look different than a heroin overdose, and so on. Knowing what to do if someone around you overdoses can make the difference between full recovery and permanent damage or death.
Alcohol Overdose
Overdosing on alcohol occurs when one consumes too much. The substance enters the bloodstream and can impair basic motor functions that keep a person alive. As a result, risk of overdose is increased if prescription or illicit drugs are used while also consuming alcohol.
Signs of alcohol overdose include:
- Intense confusion
- Loss of consciousness
- Vomiting
- Seizure
- Respiratory difficulty
- Slowed heart rate
- Clammy skin
These are some of the key signs of alcohol overdose that indicate trouble. If you recognize even one of these signs in someone around you, call 911 or emergency services immediately. Do not attempt to take matters into your own hands. Stay by the intoxicated person’s side and keep them in an upright position on the ground to avoid choking and falling. If they do end up laying down, roll them onto their side to prevent choking or asphyxiation.
Opioid Overdose
Opioids can include natural and synthetic substances. These can come in the form of prescription medications, fentanyl, and heroin. Opioids were connected to 80% of drug related deaths worldwide in 2019. The use of opioids is on the rise, and along with it is opioid overdose. Recognizing signs of opioid overdose could ensure no one is added to the statistic.
Three of the main signs of opioid overdose are:
- Small pupils
- Lack of consciousness
- Trouble breathing
You can prevent death from opioid overdose with a rapid response. Medical professionals approve Naloxone to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose when you use it in time. They provide it as a nasal spray to make it easier for everyone to use. If someone hasn’t used opioids, the medication won’t have any effects, making it safe to use if you suspect an opioid overdose.
There are many organizations that have been improving access to naloxone in all communities throughout the United States, including naloxoneforall.org. Learning how to use and administer naloxone could save a life. If you suspect someone around you has overdosed on opioids, call 911 or emergency services immediately and administer naloxone if you know how to.
Benzodiazepine Overdose
Benzodiazepines or “benzos” can be used to treat conditions from anxiety to acute pain. They are very addictive and can lead to deadly consequences. Benzo overdose deaths increased by 22% from 2019 to 2020. Benzos are a sedative, as a result their abuse risks are very serious.
Signs of benzo overdose are:
- Lethargy
- Lack of consciousness
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Tremors
- Blurry vision
- Low blood pressure and slow pulse
- Respiratory issues
- Slurred speech
If you suspect someone around you has overdosed on benzos, call 911 or emergency responders immediately. Do not attempt care on your own. After emergency personnel arrive, be prepared to provide all the details you know – including what was ingested and any allergies you may know of.
Seeking Treatment After Overdose
If you or someone you know has recently experienced drug or alcohol overdose, addiction treatment is the best way to recover. At Solution Based Treatment, we offer detox treatment that involves medical supervision to ensure patients get the safest, most comfortable detox experience possible. Once detox is complete, clients will move into residential rehab treatment to recover completely. Afterwards, iInd intensive outpatient treatment. Although it may feel like rock bottom, but bouncing back is always possible. Connect with our admissions team to learn about the opportunities available to you or your loved one.
About Solution Based Treatment
Solution Based Treatment is a national leader in detox and rehab programs. We offer inpatient medical detox, substance rehab, intensive outpatient programs, partial hospitalization programs, faith-based recovery, and sober living options. We maintain a 2:1 client to staff ratio to offer the best support possible to our patients within upscale living environments. At Solution Based Treatment, we support better living for brighter futures, all starting with our detox and rehab services. For more information visit our website at solutionbasedtreatment.com or give us a call at (833) 999-1941.