Ask a doctor on the topic of Internal medicine

Temporary loss of speech

April 23, 2019 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

I, 53 years old female, drank excessively at a cozy get-together at home on Friday. I then went to bed and - this has never happened to me before - fell out of bed. My husband then tried to talk to me and I was able to respond. However, I noticed in my subconscious that I was trying to formulate words but was unable to do so. He then woke me up with a wet towel and I was immediately responsive again. He then had me walk up and down the hallway 2 more times to see if there were any signs of impairment. However, there were none. The next morning, I could only vaguely remember the events. I was and am feeling completely normal, aside from a hangover. I then went to the emergency room because a hysterical friend told me to. The staff there were busy and the ladies told me - without examination - that I was in a non-alarming state. A CT or MRI would not be done in such a good condition. I also believe that I was in a deep sleep phase, which was naturally enhanced by alcohol. But now I have some concerns.....

Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Hello,

I understand your uncertainty! However, the emergency room is only responsible for acute (!) emergencies, not for a condition after feeling strange. In this case, your primary care physician is the point of contact and will refer you as needed.

Initially, I thought of date rape drugs, which can have such an effect, but they are rather unlikely in a domestic setting. Sometimes this happens when you mix drinks or simply drink too much, and if you suspect that one of these could be the case, I would assume that you were simply drunk. That's when you sometimes fall out of bed.

If you continue to feel well, I see no need for action. If you have frequent boozy parties, I would recommend getting your liver values checked by your primary care physician at some point. A liver that is already weakened (e.g. by medication) can tolerate less alcohol.

I wish you all the best!

Warm regards, Dr. Gehring