what is ethanol poisoning

Ethanol poisoning is caused by drinking too much of the alcohol found in alcoholic beverages. It affects multiple organ systems in both the acute and chronic phases. Ethanol is the most common form of ethanol and is a widely used and abused substance, mostly in western culture, representing the oldest and most widely abused substance. Ethanol toxicity can also result from the ingestion of non-beverage ethanol, present in substances such as mouthwash, cologne, and cough medicine. Symptoms of ethanol poisoning include confusion, slurred speech, vomiting, seizures, slow or irregular breathing, blue-tinged or pale skin, low body temperature, and passing out. Ethanol poisoning is typically caused by high-intensity binge drinking, which is the consumption of a very large amount of alcohol during an episode of binge drinking. If someone has an exposure to ethanol poisoning, it is important to call the local emergency number or the local poison control center directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere in the United States.