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How to Recognise an Overdose |
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What is an Overdose?
Overdoses (ODs) happen when the body is overwhelmed by a drug, usually a drug like heroin. Sometimes people can have heart attacks after using drugs like amphetamine or cocaine. This can happen quickly or slowly, but if not treated can and sometimes does lead to a pointless death.
Symptoms of an Overdose
- Lips and fingertips turn blue
- They cannot be easily roused or woken up
- Breathing becomes slow or even stops
- They do not wake up when shaken or hurt e.g. when their earlobe is squeezed
- They look grey or very pale - a bad colour
Remember that people with darker skin colouring may not show all of these symptoms. The best guide is to look for the first four on the list above.
Sometimes people vomit (puke or throw up), which can stop their breathing, even if they haven't completely overdosed. This is very dangerous. Also overdose is much more likely to happen if drugs like heroin, valium or alcohol are taken together.
Problems with Ecstasy
What to Look Out for if you have taken Ecstasy
You should stop dancing immediately and get help (if necessary call an ambulance) if........
- You stop sweating even if you are still dancing
- Your mouth stops making saliva - no spit
- You feel uncomfortably hot and dry
- You feel dizzy or faint
Information on how to avoid problems with Ecstasy is available here.
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