Blacking out should not be considered a normal aspect of drinking. Blacking out from drinking is a sign that you are drinking too much and putting your health at risk.
Blackouts, or alcohol-induced amnesia, are often caused by binge drinking or drinking to extreme intoxication. Blackouts can be dangerous because you may not remember how much alcohol you consumed or what you did while you were intoxicated.
If you regularly black out from drinking, it’s important to seek help from a medical professional or alcohol treatment program. Contact The Right Step Houston at 1.844.768.0169 today to get your health on track.
What Happens During a Blackout?
When a person blacks out, they may appear to be awake and functioning normally, but they will not be able to remember what happened during that time. Blackouts can occur after just a few drinks, and the more alcohol you consume, the more likely you are to experience one.
There are two types of blackouts:
- Fragmentary blackouts also called partial or brownout blackouts, are when a person can’t remember parts of what happened during their drinking episode. They may be able to recall bits and pieces, but they will have large gaps in their memory.
- En bloc blackouts, on the other hand, are when a person cannot remember anything that happened during their drinking episode. This is the more dangerous type of blackout because you will have no recollection of what occurred and could put yourself in danger without realizing it.
What Is the BAC Level for a Blackout?
One typically blacks out when their BAC level, or blood alcohol content, reaches 0.15%. That is nearly twice the legal limit for driving in most states.
Your BAC level depends on a variety of factors, including:
- Your weight
- How much you’ve eaten
- How quickly you’re drinking
How Dangerous is an Alcohol Blackout?
Blackouts are dangerous because you may not be aware of your actions or what is happening around you. This can lead to accidents, injury, or even death. Some people who experience blackouts may become aggressive or violent. Others may take risks they wouldn’t usually take, like driving drunk or having unprotected sex. This can put you and others in danger. There are several reasons why blackouts are dangerous, including:
- Vulnerability to physical or sexual abuse
- An impaired judgment which leads to dangerous behavior
- Alcohol poisoning or other medical emergencies
- Risk of legal or financial problems
- Inability to recall important events or situations
If you cannot remember what happened while you were drunk, then you may be vulnerable or liable for certain events or situations that occurred. If you regularly black out, you are at a high risk of injury or death.
Are Blackouts a Sign of Addiction?
Blackouts indicate that you either do not know your alcohol limit or are choosing to ignore it. If you black out frequently, getting help for your drinking problem is important. You can learn how to moderate your drinking and reduce your risk of blackouts and other negative consequences with treatment.
Not only are blackouts dangerous, but they are a serious sign of addiction. A single instance of an alcohol blackout is a sign of substance abuse. Still, if you continue to blackout and have multiple episodes over a long period, then you may have an addiction to alcohol. Other signs of alcohol addiction include:
- Needing to drink more alcohol to feel the same effects
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you don’t drink
- Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from drinking
- Letting alcohol take over your life and neglecting other responsibilities
Get Help for Alcohol Addiction at The Right Step Houston
If you or a loved one is blacking out, getting professional help may be the next step. Our compassionate and experienced team can provide you with the tools and resources you need to overcome addiction. Contact The Right Step Houston at 1.844.768.0169 today to get started on your journey to recovery.