Title: Avoiding Spooky Mishaps: Why You Definitely Shouldn’t Put Alcohol in Your Eyeballs

Introduction:

As Halloween approaches, many are gearing up for spooky parties and delicious themed drinks. However, one question recently caught my attention and made me ponder: Can you actually get drunk by putting alcohol on your eyeball? While my first instinct was to adamantly discourage such a dangerous practice, my scientific curiosity led me to delve deeper into the subject. Through extensive research, it becomes abundantly clear that alcohol and eyeballs should never mix. In fact, the American Academy of Ophthalmology issued a public statement back in 2010 warning against the harmful effects of “vodka eyeballing.” So let’s take a closer look at why you should absolutely avoid this and explore the potential consequences.

The Myth of Alcohol and Eyeball Absorption:

To understand the concept behind vodka eyeballing, we need to grasp how alcohol affects the body. Typically, alcohol is consumed orally and enters the bloodstream through the stomach lining or the small intestine. From there, it circulates throughout the body, including the brain, where it elicits its intoxicating effects. However, the notion behind vodka eyeballing suggests that alcohol could be absorbed through the capillaries in the eyes, directly entering the bloodstream near the brain. While this may sound intriguing, the reality is far from it.

The Reality: Minimal Absorption with Severe Consequences:

Physicians and experts affirm that very little alcohol is actually absorbed through the eyes. Attempting to force alcohol absorption in this manner poses severe risks to various parts of the eyeball. The cornea, vision, and overall eye health can be greatly compromised. In 2010, the American Academy of Ophthalmology highlighted these dangers and warned against even considering this practice. Despite the statement being over a decade old, the fact that this question still arises in classrooms demonstrates the need for continued awareness and education.

Beyond Vodka Eyeballing: A Rise in Risky Drinking Trends:

While vodka eyeballing may have faded into the past, we continually witness new risky drinking trends emerging among university students. One such trend gaining popularity is known as blackout rage gallons, or “borgs” for short. These concoctions consist of a full fifth of vodka, mixed with water and sweet flavoring. It’s essential to recognize the risks associated with these extreme drinking practices.

Understanding the Risks: Alcohol Consumption and Blackouts:

A typical “borg” contains the alcohol equivalent of sixteen standard drinks. Consuming more than four or five standard drinks in one sitting is considered high-risk drinking, leading to impaired physical and mental abilities due to increased blood alcohol concentration. This level, 0.08% alcohol by volume, legally classifies people as impaired. Consuming a “borg” can catapult individuals to three or four times this legally impaired level, resulting in blackouts. During a blackout, a person’s cognitive, sensory, and physical abilities are severely impaired, leading to accidents, loss of awareness, and sudden unconsciousness.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety over Risky Drinking:

While it is reassuring that vodka eyeballing seems to have largely become a thing of the past, it is crucial to remain vigilant against new ways of risky drinking, such as “borgs.” If ever faced with the pressure to engage in such practices, remember to prioritize your safety and well-being. Risks arise from various factors, and each person’s susceptibility may differ. Educate yourself, stay informed about the dangers, and never hesitate to assert your right to make responsible choices regarding alcohol consumption.

References:

1. Statement from the American Academy of Ophthalmology regarding “vodka eyeballing.” American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2015, January 31). Retrieved from [insert link here]

Title: Challenging and Risky Drinking Trends on College Campuses

Introduction:

College life is often associated with new experiences, freedom, and self-discovery. However, amidst the excitement and opportunities, some students engage in risky behaviors that can have severe consequences. Two recent drinking trends, vodka eyeballing and gallon drinking, have gained popularity among college students. While these trends seem like harmless fun at first glance, they pose significant risks to individuals’ health and well-being. This blog post aims to shed light on the dangers associated with these trends and the importance of making responsible choices.

Vodka Eyeballing: A Potential Cause of Ocular Injuries:

In 2014, Bosmia, Griessenauer, and Tubbs published an article in the Journal of Injury and Violence Research, highlighting the potential risks of vodka eyeballing. This practice involves pouring vodka directly into the eye, with the aim of achieving a quicker and more intense buzz. The eyeball’s sensitive tissues are not designed to withstand exposure to high alcohol concentrations, making them susceptible to severe damage. This behavior can lead to corneal abrasions, vision impairment, and even permanent blindness. It is essential to educate students about the potential consequences of vodka eyeballing to discourage this dangerous trend.

Gallon Drinking: A Rising Trend:

A more recent trend on college campuses is gallon drinking, as highlighted in an article by Alonso in 2023. This trend involves consuming an entire gallon of alcohol within a specific time frame. The allure of this challenge stems from its competitive nature and the desire to prove one’s drinking prowess. Gallon drinking, however, puts individuals at risk of consuming extremely high levels of alcohol in a short period. With alcohol impairing judgment and inhibitions, excessive consumption can lead to alcohol poisoning, blackouts, and other life-threatening consequences.

Understanding Blood Alcohol Content (BAC):

To comprehend the potential dangers of these trends, it is crucial to understand blood alcohol content (BAC), as explained by the University of Toledo’s Substance Use and Recovery Support Services. BAC is a measure of the amount of alcohol present in a person’s bloodstream. Different BAC levels result in varying degrees of impairment. For example, a BAC of 0.08% is considered legally drunk in many states. Students should be aware that gallon drinking and vodka eyeballing can rapidly elevate BAC levels, leading to dangerous intoxication and potentially fatal consequences.

Taking Responsibility: A Focus on College-Aged Drinking:

The college years are a time of exploration and self-discovery, and alcohol consumption often plays a role in social interactions. However, it is essential for students to adopt responsible drinking habits. Merrill and Carey’s article in Alcohol Research: Current Reviews emphasizes the significance of promoting responsible drinking behaviors among college-aged individuals. This includes understanding the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption, setting limits, and establishing healthier coping mechanisms.

Conclusion:

While college offers numerous exciting experiences, it is crucial to prioritize personal safety and make responsible choices. Trends like vodka eyeballing and gallon drinking may appear enticing, but the risks they pose to physical and mental health cannot be understated. By spreading awareness about the potential consequences and educating students on responsible alcohol consumption, we can create a safer environment on college campuses. Let’s work together to shift the focus from risky drinking practices to positive and enjoyable experiences during these formative years.