BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) is a measure of the amount of alcohol present in the bloodstream. The effects of alcohol can vary significantly at different BAC levels. Keep in mind that individual tolerance to alcohol may vary too, and these effects are general guidelines. The legal BAC limit for driving is typically set at 0.08% in the USA.
Here are the levels of BAC and the corresponding affects:
- 0.01 – 0.03%: No clear effects. Slight mood elevation. In most states, legally impaired at .01% BAC if you are under twenty-one.
- 0.04 – 0.06%: Feeling of relaxation. Sensation of warmth. Minor impairment of reasoning and memory.
- 0.07 – 0.09%: Mild impairment of balance, speech, vision, and control. In most states, the level is considered legally impaired at 0.08% BAC if you are over twenty-one. It is illegal to drive or bike at this level.
- 0.10 – 0.12%: Significant impairment of motor coordination and loss of judgment, including slurred speech.
- 0.13 – 0.15%: Gross impairment of motor control. Blurred vision and major loss of balance. Onset of dysphoria (anxiety, restlessness).
- 0.16 – 0.20%: Dysphoria (a state of feeling very unhappy, uneasy, or dissatisfied) dominates. Nausea and vomiting may appear.
- 0.25 – 0.30%: Severe intoxication. Needs help walking. Mental confusion. Dysphoria with nausea and vomiting.
- 0.35% – 0.40%: Loss of consciousness. Brink or possibility of coma.
- 0.40% and up: Onset of coma. Likelihood of death due to respiratory failure.
The effects levels can change depending on how long and how much the person has drunk in the last year—the tolerance increases as person continues to drink alcoholically.
It is crucial to understand the risks associated with alcohol consumption, and it is always safer to avoid driving or engaging in any activities that require focus and coordination when under the influence.
However, drinking responsibly is usually hard to achieve for a person who is struggling with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). One of the traits of AUD is continuing behavior despite negative consequences. See What Are the Traits of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) for more information.
Sober Courage 