Alcohol is one of the most widely consumed substances worldwide, but even at a certain per mille level, it can become life-threatening. In this guide, you will learn at what per mille level one dies, what symptoms of alcohol poisoning can occur, and at what point alcohol consumption can have fatal consequences.

1. What Happens at Various Per Mille Levels?

The effect of alcohol on the body strongly depends on the amount of alcohol consumed, measured by the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in per mille. Here are the effects of typical per mille levels:

  • 0.3 – 0.5 Per Mille: Mild relaxation, increased self-confidence, but already initial impairments in reaction ability.
  • 0.5 – 1.0 Per Mille: Significant impairment of coordination, increased risk-taking behavior, and diminished judgment. First legal driving incapacity in traffic.
  • 1.0 – 2.0 Per Mille: Severe motor skill limitations, speech disorders, and balance issues. A state of drunkenness often accompanied by memory gaps.
  • From 2.0 Per Mille: Confusion, loss of consciousness, and severe motor impairments. This is when the danger of alcohol poisoning begins.
  • From 3.0 Per Mille: Unconsciousness and life-threatening conditions. At this level, alcohol intoxication can lead to coma or death.
  • From 4.0 Per Mille: Usually a lethal dose, especially for individuals without alcohol tolerance. Respiratory paralysis, circulatory failure, and death by asphyxiation can be the consequences.

However, individual tolerance to alcohol can vary greatly from person to person. Especially for individuals who rarely drink, even lower per mille levels can lead to life-threatening conditions.

2. At What Per Mille Does One Die? Fatal Per Mille Limits

The exact **fatal per mille limit** depends on various factors such as body weight, gender, alcohol tolerance, and the speed of drinking. Generally, the fatal limit lies between **4.0 and 5.0 per mille**, although life-threatening conditions can occur at lower levels, starting from **3.0 per mille**.

  • From 3.0 Per Mille: Many individuals fall into a coma or lose consciousness. Without adequate medical care, there is a risk of death due to respiratory arrest.
  • From 4.0 Per Mille: In most cases, death occurs through respiratory paralysis or circulatory failure.

In rare cases, individuals may survive per mille levels above 4.0, but these are extreme exceptions, often in people with high alcohol tolerance.

3. Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning

Alcohol poisoning is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. The key symptoms include:

  • Confusion and Disorientation: Affected individuals cannot coordinate or answer simple questions.
  • Consciousness Disorders: From drowsiness to unconsciousness.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: A common sign of acute alcohol poisoning.
  • Irregular Breathing: Shallow, irregular breaths or respiratory arrest can be life-threatening.
  • Hypothermia: Alcohol causes blood vessels to dilate, which at high per mille levels can lead to dangerous hypothermia.

If such symptoms are present, an ambulance should be called immediately, as without timely treatment, life-threatening consequences like respiratory arrest or circulatory collapse can occur.

4. Who Is Particularly at Risk?

People who rarely consume alcohol or are lightweight are particularly at risk of reaching dangerous per mille levels more quickly. Additionally, adolescents and elderly individuals often have lower alcohol tolerance. Moreover, the concurrent consumption of alcohol with medications or drugs is a significant risk factor that can be fatal even at lower per mille levels.

5. First Aid for Alcohol Poisoning

If you see someone showing signs of alcohol poisoning, you should act immediately:

  • Call Emergency Services: Immediately call an ambulance by dialing 112.
  • Stable Side Position: Place the affected person in the stable side position to prevent choking on vomit.
  • Monitor Consciousness: Regularly check the person's breathing and consciousness until help arrives.
  • No Water or Coffee: Do not give the person water, coffee, or food, as this can increase vomiting.

Quick action can save lives in cases of alcohol poisoning.

Summary

  • At What Per Mille Does One Die: Fatal per mille levels generally start at 4.0 per mille, but life-threatening conditions can begin at 3.0 per mille.
  • Alcohol Poisoning: From 3.0 per mille, severe consciousness disorders and breathing problems usually occur. Without treatment, there is an acute risk of death.
  • Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning: Confusion, nausea, unconsciousness, and breathing issues are serious signs.
  • First Aid: Call emergency services, place the person in the stable side position, and regularly monitor their breathing are crucial measures.

Questions Answered by This Article:

  • From What Per Mille Does One Die: When does alcohol consumption become fatal?
  • Fatal Per Mille Values: Which per mille limits are life-threatening?
  • Alcohol Poisoning: What symptoms occur during severe alcohol poisoning?