What is the primary cause of death in cases of alcohol overdose?

What is the primary cause of death in cases of alcohol overdose?

• A. Heart failure
• B. Respiratory depression
• C. Cardiac arrest
• D. Muscle paralysis

Answer: (B)

The primary cause of death in cases of alcohol overdose is respiratory depression. When a person consumes a large amount of alcohol in a short period, it can severely depress the central nervous system. This can lead to a decrease in the body's ability to regulate vital functions, particularly breathing. As the respiratory rate drops, the body may not get enough oxygen, which can result in insufficient oxygen reaching the brain and other vital organs. This lack of oxygen causes a cascade of metabolic disturbances, which can be fatal if not addressed immediately. While cardiac arrest and heart failure can occur as a result of alcohol's impact on the cardiovascular system, the immediate and often critical concern in overdose situations is the respiratory system’s failure, making respiratory depression the most direct and primary threat during such incidents.

The primary cause of death in cases of alcohol overdose is respiratory depression. When a person consumes a large amount of alcohol in a short period, it can severely depress the central nervous system. This can lead to a decrease in the body's ability to regulate vital functions, particularly breathing.

As the respiratory rate drops, the body may not get enough oxygen, which can result in insufficient oxygen reaching the brain and other vital organs. This lack of oxygen causes a cascade of metabolic disturbances, which can be fatal if not addressed immediately. While cardiac arrest and heart failure can occur as a result of alcohol's impact on the cardiovascular system, the immediate and often critical concern in overdose situations is the respiratory system’s failure, making respiratory depression the most direct and primary threat during such incidents.