Can gastric lavage be performed for alcohol poisoning?

Sep 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My husband was drinking with friends tonight and now he's feeling really unwell. Can he get his stomach pumped?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhao Haiming
Alcohol poisoning can be treated with gastric lavage. In general, if a patient has consumed a large amount of alcohol and shows symptoms such as unconsciousness, pale face, bluish lips, or abnormal breathing, they should be immediately taken to the hospital for gastric lavage to prevent the condition from worsening and becoming life-threatening. For mild intoxication, gastric lavage is usually unnecessary. Instead, maintain body warmth, drink plenty of warm water, and consume strong tea or honey water to help alleviate the effects of alcohol.