Final answer:
Excessive alcohol consumption leads to alcohol intoxication, with risks ranging from impaired coordination and judgment to severe health complications or death. BAC determines the severity of intoxication and varies between individuals. Long-term effects of alcohol abuse can be life-altering, and even substances like water can be dangerous in excessive amounts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Drinking That Puts a Person at Risk of Alcohol Overdose
Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can put a person in danger of alcohol overdose, also known as alcohol intoxication. The immediate effects of alcohol depend on the individual's Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC), which varies based on factors like age, sex, weight, and health conditions. Alcohol intoxication can begin after consuming two or more drinks in a short period. As BAC rises, so does the risk of serious consequences such as impaired judgment, lack of coordination, blurred vision, and possibly aggressive behavior.
High levels of alcohol consumption can lead to devastating outcomes including respiratory depression, coma, or even death. Other short-term risks include accidents, such as those contributing to the estimated 50% of road accidents in Australia linked to alcohol use. Long-term effects include liver disease, such as cirrhosis, memory loss, job loss, family disruption, and increased cancer risk. Pregnant individuals consuming alcohol put their offspring at risk of developing fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD).
The dangers of alcohol are similar to those of water intoxication; both involve the consumption of a substance in a quantity that the body cannot safely process. It's crucial to understand that any substance, even water, can be harmful when consumed in inappropriate quantities.