Name of the Condition

• Blood Alcohol Level of 240 mg/100 ml or more
• Commonly referred to as: Severe alcohol intoxication

Summary

• This condition reflects a dangerously high concentration of alcohol in the blood, indicating severe intoxication. It poses significant health risks, affecting physical and mental functions, and can result in life-threatening complications.

Causes

• The primary cause is the consumption of excessive amounts of alcoholic beverages in a short period.

Risk Factors

• Binge drinking behavior
• High tolerance for alcohol consumption
• Social or cultural norms that encourage heavy drinking
• Lack of awareness about safe drinking limits

Symptoms

• Poor coordination and motor control
• Confusion or stupor
• Slurred speech
• Nausea and vomiting
• Altered mental state, possibly leading to unconsciousness

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis primarily involves a blood test that measures the level of alcohol present in the blood to confirm severe intoxication.

Treatment Options

• Monitoring and stabilization of vital signs in a medical setting
• Administration of intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration
• Use of activated charcoal in some cases to prevent further absorption of alcohol
• Continuous observation for any worsening of symptoms

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With prompt medical treatment, individuals can recover fully from an acute episode of severe alcohol intoxication. However, repeated incidents can lead to chronic health issues.
• Follow-up may include counseling or rehabilitation programs to prevent future episodes.

Complications

• Respiratory depression and risk of asphyxiation from vomiting
• Possible development of alcohol poisoning
• Risk of injury or accidents while intoxicated
• Long-term liver damage with repeated episodes

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Adopting a responsible drinking approach, such as setting a personal limit before drinking
• Avoiding drinking games and situations that encourage heavy drinking
• Seeking support for alcohol use through counseling or support groups

When to Seek Professional Help

• Signs of alcohol poisoning, such as loss of consciousness, slow or irregular breathing, and seizures, warrant immediate medical attention.

  Additional Resources

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
• Local alcohol support groups or hotlines

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure that the blood alcohol concentration is documented to accurately code the condition as Y90.8.
• Be wary of coding errors involving similar ICD codes for different alcohol-related conditions, confirming that documentation supports the level specified.