Stages of alcohol intoxication

Blood Alcohol Concentration

Stage

Clinical symptoms

0.01 – 0.05

Subclinical

Behavior nearly normal by ordinary observation

0.03 – 0.12

Euphoria

Mild euphoria, sociability, talkativeness
Increased self-confidence; decreased inhibitions
Diminution of attention, judgment and control
Beginning of sensory-motor impairment
Loss of efficiency in finer performance tests

0.09 – 0.25

Excitement

Emotional instability; loss of critical judgment
Impairment of perception, memory and comprehension
Decreased sensatory response; increased reaction time
Reduced visual acuity; peripheral vision and glare recovery
Sensory-motor incoordination; impaired balance
Drowsiness

0.18 – 0.30

Confusion

Disorientation, mental confusion; dizziness
Exaggerated emotional states
Disturbances of vision and of perception of color, form, motion and dimensions
Increased pain threshold
Increased muscular incoordination; staggering gait; slurred speech
Apathy, lethargy

0.25 – 0.40

Stupor

General inertia; approaching loss of motor functions
Markedly decreased response to stimuli
Marked muscular incoordination; inability to stand or walk
Vomiting; incontinence
Impaired consciousness; sleep or stupor

0.35 – 0.50

Coma

Complete unconsciousness
Depressed or abolished reflexes
Subnormal body temperature
Incontinence
Impairment of circulation and respiration
Possible death

0.45 +

Death

Death from respiratory arrest