New data from NHS England shows that visits to their website increased significantly over Christmas 2023, particularly in relation to alcohol misuse.
While many people visited pages on winter illnesses like coughs, colds, and chest infections, a notable number of visitors were also looking for information about alcohol misuse, including alcohol poisoning. Alcohol-related concerns saw a rise in visits, with people seeking guidance on the risks of alcohol consumption, its effects on health, and how to deal with alcohol poisoning.
One of the most viewed topics was the NHS page on alcohol poisoning, which saw a 60% increase in traffic over the festive period compared to a typical 48 hours, going up from 1,268 visits to 2,008. This suggests that many people were looking for advice on how to handle alcohol-related emergencies during the holiday season.
The NHS warns that drinking too much alcohol can lead to serious health problems, including alcohol poisoning, and advises people to drink responsibly. Alcohol misuse can also affect mental health and contribute to accidents and injuries, which are more common during festive celebrations.
Prof Sir Stephen Powis, NHS England’s medical director, said that the NHS website and NHS App are always available to help people find the information they need about alcohol misuse and other health concerns. He reminded people that NHS staff would be working throughout the festive period to provide care and support.
For those in need of emergency help, the NHS advises contacting 999 for urgent medical assistance, or 111 for less urgent concerns.
Signs of Alcohol Poisoning
Alcohol poisoning occurs when a person drinks a large amount of alcohol in a short period, which can be dangerous. The signs to look out for include:
- Confusion or stupor: Difficulty staying awake or responding to others.
- Vomiting: Severe or uncontrollable vomiting.
- Seizures: Convulsions or shaking that cannot be stopped.
- Slow or irregular breathing: Breathing less than 8 times per minute or irregular breaths.
- Hypothermia: Low body temperature, causing pale or blue-tinged skin.
- Unconsciousness: If someone is unresponsive and cannot be woken up.
If you suspect someone is experiencing alcohol poisoning, seek emergency medical help immediately by calling 999. It is important not to leave the person alone and to keep them on their side to prevent choking.