Mr. Binh arrived at Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi, exhausted and breathing rapidly. Lab results revealed a high white blood cell count, hemoconcentration from severe dehydration, and a reduced blood pH. Doctor Dao Tran Tien, Deputy Head of Gastroenterology - Hepatobiliary - Pancreatology, diagnosed the patient with acute poisoning, suspected to be alcohol-related. His condition was worsening, risking rapid progression to hypovolemic shock and multi-organ failure.

Mr. Binh received fluid resuscitation, electrolyte correction, and acid-base balancing to stabilize his blood and body fluid pH. This treatment was combined with medications for digestive symptoms and antispasmodics. Simultaneously, tests ruled out methanol poisoning and other dangerous toxins. Following treatment, Mr. Binh's condition stabilized, with improved metabolic acidosis and reduced lactate levels.

Doctor Tien inquired about Mr. Binh's symptoms during a follow-up visit. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

"Herbal liquor of unknown origin can irritate the digestive tract, causing dehydration and metabolic disorders that lead to poisoning," Doctor Tien explained. He added that this risk stems from uncontrolled ingredients and alcohol content. "Some varieties may contain high-concentration alcohol, impurities, or unsuitable herbal ingredients, causing severe irritation and posing a significant poisoning risk, particularly for older adults with compromised liver and kidney function."

Beyond unknown-origin alcohol, acute alcohol poisoning can also result from consuming high-concentration alcohol, rapid drinking, or drinking on an empty stomach, which leads to swift alcohol absorption. The risk escalates for older adults and individuals with liver, kidney, or cardiovascular conditions, or those on medication.

Doctor Tien advises adults to limit alcohol consumption and strictly avoid herbal liquor of unknown origin, provenance, or with unclear ingredients. He also warns against drinking alcohol on an empty stomach, consuming large amounts, or drinking rapidly. If symptoms like severe fatigue, prolonged vomiting or diarrhea, intense abdominal pain, dizziness, altered consciousness, or other unusual systemic signs emerge, seek prompt medical attention. This ensures timely treatment and reduces the risk of dangerous complications.

Ly Nguyen

*Patient's name has been changed