Final answer:
The first signs of alcohol impairment include increased reaction time, problems with motor coordination, and short-term memory issues, with more serious impairment occurring at higher levels of consumption.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first signs of alcohol impairment are usually manifested as increased reaction time, noticeable difficulties with motor coordination, and challenges to short-term memory. When a person consumes alcohol, it causes a decrease in visual acuity, alertness levels, and behavioral control. At low levels, individuals may experience euphoria, but as they consume more, sedation becomes predominant.
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to severe impairment including memory loss, confusion, and problems with balance and motor coordination. At extreme levels of intake, there is a risk of coma or even death. Complications such as job loss, family disruptions, and long-term physiological issues, like cirrhosis of the liver, can arise from chronic alcohol use. Moreover, individuals with a higher blood alcohol concentration (BAC) will display more pronounced effects, with legal intoxication in many jurisdictions starting at a BAC of 0.08%.