Medical Conditions Mistaken for Being Drunk

Medical Conditions That Can Be Mistaken for Intoxication

Feeling dazed, confused, dizzy or weak may seem like obvious signs of drinking too much alcohol. However, there are a number of medical conditions that can mimic the symptoms of intoxication perfectly sober individuals.

From diabetes complications to brain injuries, various health issues share common symptoms with being drunk. Slurred speech, loss of coordination, nausea and cognitive troubles can stem from underlying medical causes.

Recognizing these "imitator" conditions is important, as some require prompt medical treatment. Misreading the symptoms could lead to serious health consequences if not properly addressed.

Read on to learn about some medical conditions that can masquerade as drunkenness, along with key points of distinction to be aware of.

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar levels. It frequently occurs in people with diabetes, but it can happen to anyone. Early signs of hypoglycemia often mimic intoxication:

• Slurred speech
• Confusion
• Loss of coordination
• Dizziness
• Mood changes like anxiety or combativeness

As blood sugar drops further, more severe symptoms occur like seizures, unconsciousness, and potentially death if left untreated. Hypoglycemia requires immediate treatment with fast-acting carbohydrates like fruit juice or glucose tablets followed by a protein/carb snack.

Heat Exhaustion

Prolonged exposure to high heat that leads to dehydration can cause heat exhaustion. Symptoms may include:

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Headache
• Muscle cramps
• Fatigue
• Impaired coordination
• Slurred speech
• Confusion

The effects of heat exhaustion can appear similar to intoxication. Getting out of the heat, rehydrating and resting can relieve mild symptoms. Severe heat exhaustion requires emergency medical care to prevent progression to heat stroke.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a medical emergency caused by prolonged exposure to high heat. Symptoms include:

• Altered mental state
• Confusion
• Slurred speech
• Dizziness
• Loss of consciousness
• Hallucinations
• Seizures
• Lack of sweating

These symptoms may be mistaken for extreme intoxication. Immediate medical treatment is vital, as heat stroke can rapidly damage the brain, heart, liver and muscles if untreated.

Concussion

Concussions are common head injuries, usually from an impact or blow. They can cause an array of symptoms:

• Headache or dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue
• Slurred speech
• Confusion
• Delayed responses
• Personality changes

The mental fog, dizziness and coordination troubles of a concussion may resemble intoxication. Those with head injuries should avoid alcohol and get prompt medical care to check for concussion and any needed treatment.

Stroke

The symptoms that can occur with stroke depend on the part of the brain impacted. Common signs include:

• Sudden confusion
• Trouble speaking or understanding speech
• Vision problems
• Dizziness
• Loss of balance and coordination
• Weakness on one side of the body
• Severe headache

Since strokes require emergency treatment to minimize brain damage, recognizing symptoms is critical. Calling 911 instead of assuming intoxication could mean the difference between disability and recovery.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication of diabetes caused by high blood sugars and ketone buildup. Symptoms may include:

• Confusion and disorientation
• Sluggishness
• Difficulty paying attention
• Slurred speech
• Drowsiness
• Fruity-scented breath
• Rapid, deep breathing

DKA can rapidly become life-threatening without prompt treatment. Getting medical care quickly for suspected DKA can help prevent deterioration to diabetic coma.

Alcohol Withdrawal

When someone dependent on alcohol stops drinking suddenly, they can experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms. These may include:

• Tremors
• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Trouble walking
• Rapid heartbeat
• Profuse sweating
• Agitation
• Seizures

Withdrawal can be life-threatening. Those experiencing alcohol withdrawal need medical management to safely clear toxins and get symptoms under control.

Ketoacidosis

Ketoacidosis also occurs in conditions other than uncontrolled diabetes. It happens when high levels of ketones from fat breakdown acidify the blood. Symptoms may involve:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Weakness
• Confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Fruity odor to the breath

Causes range from alcoholism to severe infection. Prompt treatment of the underlying condition and ketoacidosis is important.

UTI or Kidney Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) that travels to the kidneys can cause symptoms like:

• Mental confusion
• Fatigue
• Poor coordination
• Trouble speaking clearly
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills

Though these symptoms may not seem an obvious match for a UTI, a kidney infection can create toxins that impact brain function and mimic intoxication. Antibiotics are needed to treat the infection before it spreads.

Low Blood Sodium

Hyponatremia refers to low sodium levels in the blood. Sodium is critical for fluid balance and nerve conduction. Symptoms may involve:

• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Headache
• Confusion
• Loss of energy
• Muscle weakness, spasms or cramps
• Seizures

Mild hyponatremia can be treated by addressing the underlying cause, like medications or abnormal hormone levels. Severely low sodium is a medical emergency requiring IV fluids and close monitoring.

Liver Disease

Advanced liver disease impairs the organ's ability to remove toxins from the blood. This can create symptoms like:

• Confusion and disorientation
• Slurred speech
• Memory loss
• Lack of coordination
• Trouble concentrating
• Sleepiness
• Mood changes

Cirrhosis and liver failure must be treated to stabilize decreasing liver function and prevent complications. Seeking medical care is vital.

Medication Side Effects

Certain prescription medications can create side effects resembling intoxication in some individuals. These may include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, slurred speech, lack of coordination and slowed thinking. Medications that may cause such side effects include:

• Opioid pain medications
• Sedatives and tranquilizers
• Some antidepressants and antipsychotics
• Muscle relaxants
• Certain cold and allergy medications
• Some blood pressure and heart medications

Stopping medications abruptly can be dangerous, so speak to your doctor about any problematic side effects.

When to Seek Medical Care

Feeling impaired, dizzy or ill after drinking may easily be chalked up to alcohol. But in some cases, an underlying medical condition could be to blame. Pay attention to any symptoms that seem too severe to match the amount consumed.

Promptly seek medical help when signs arise like:

• Sudden, severe confusion or inability to communicate
• Vomiting or seizures
• Chest pain, numbness or paralysis on one side
• Extreme difficulty walking or standing upright
• Passing out or falling due to dizziness or weakness
• Rapid heart rate, breathing trouble or high fever
• Symptoms that worsen over hours or days

Trust your instincts if something feels much more serious than a normal post-drinking hangover. Getting evaluated urgently could lead to lifesaving treatment for stroke, infection, low blood sugar, or other dangerous conditions.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.