As drugs and drug-use becomes more prevalent and widespread in our society, it becomes important for the public at large to recognize the warning signs of drug overdose. Any one of us, whether or not we drink alcohol or use recreational drugs ourselves, may be called upon to help someone who is suffering a drug overdose, and needs help. Knowing what warning signs to look for can save a person’s life.
Stress and Drug Use Facts
While drug and alcohol use and abuse is an everyday problem, as are the problematic life stresses which prompt its use, the holidays are known to contribute to increased substance abuse and consequent risk of overdose.
A 2002 study showed-up that stress can trigger drug-use and alcohol consumption. A 2010 study showed-up that drug and alcohol use is frequently exacerbated during holidays, especially Christmas and New Year’s. It also identified stress as a leading cause of drug and alcohol relapse.
According to a 2008 Centers for Disease Control study (Surveillance for Violent Deaths), suicide victims commonly test positive for illicit drugs or alcohol:
- 33% of suicides testing positive for alcohol.
- 16 % testing positive for opiates.
- 9% testing positive for cocaine.
- 8% testing positive for marijuana.
Studies have also shown alcohol to be more harmful than many illicit drugs, including marijuana, amphetamines, ecstasy and GHB—a powerful synthetic drug with euphoric and sedative effects.
The holiday season, with its increased stress and pressures, including financial, familial and personal, can definitely impact a person’s health and wellbeing, and invite alcohol and drug use.
Moreover, holiday celebrations, get-togethers and parties present yet another facet of increased alcohol consumption and drug use, increasing the risk of over-indulgence and potential overdose
.Overdose Warning Signs
Drugs and alcohol affect the entire body, and with an overdose, the side-effects of the drug become more pronounced. There are also other drug overdose side-effects which do not usually occur with normal drug-use.
Depending on the drug, large overdoses may cause only minimal effects; yet a smaller overdose of other drugs may cause severe effects and even death. A single dose of a drug may be lethal to a young child. A person with a chronic disease may experience a worsened condition due to an overdose—such as triggering chest pains or an asthma attack.
In addition to the above overview, there are five overdose warning signs everyone should know:
Problems with Vital Signs
Problems with vital signs such as respiratory rate, pulse rate, blood pressure and temperature can be caused by an overdose, and can be life threatening. These problems can include a decrease in, an increase in, or a complete absence of, vital signs.
Skin
The skin may be cool and sweaty; or it may be hot and dry.
Sleepiness and/or Confusion
Both sleepiness and confusion—or even coma—is a common overdose warning sign. These issues can become especially dangerous with aspiration (breathing vomit into the lungs).
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain and nausea are overdose warning signs, as are vomiting and diarrhea. The vomiting of blood, or blood in the person’s bowel movements can be life-threatening signs.
Chest Pain
Overdose-induced heart or lung damage can be a source of chest pain, and may be accompanied by shortness of breath. The person may exhibit changes in breathing, such as rapid or slow; or deep or shallow.
Suggestions
In a life-threatening emergency situation caused by an overdose of drugs or alcohol, calling 911 for help would be warranted. Applying the appropriate first-aid measures until help arrives would give the person his or her best chance for life and recovery.
Drug and alcohol-prevention measures should be taken by those who are vulnerable to life stresses during the holidays. Avoiding get-togethers, parties and stressful situations which increase the risk of alcohol or drug use is a measure any person can take to safeguard their health and wellbeing.
Engaging in alternate activities which don’t invite overindulgence in either drugs or alcohol; getting enough sleep and rest; eating a healthy diet and getting some exercise can all contribute to staying alive, and get through the holiday season safely.