Stages of Alcohol Intoxication

BAC

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 sensory response; increased reaction time, Reduced visual acuity; peripheral vision and glare recovery, Sensory-motor lack of coordination; 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 lack of coordination; 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 lack of coordination; 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.