The specialist noted that during raids, especially on weekends, many intoxicated drivers are brought to the center, and "the fact journal is almost entirely filled out in red ink." The problem concerns both alcohol and drugs.
"The situation raises serious concerns. Many of those we admit do not recognize their guilt and often show aggression towards medical staff," added Ashchi.She emphasized the need to strengthen responsibility for driving under the influence, as the problem has a systemic nature.
Many drivers, according to her, believe that a small amount of alcohol consumed, such as a mug of beer, cannot be dangerous. However, Aliya Ashchi emphasizes that there is no concept of "a little drunk" in medicine.
"There are only two states - sober and drunk. Regardless of the degree of intoxication, you are still drunk!" she commented.Some drivers also try to justify a positive test by referring to the consumption of fermented dairy products. Nevertheless, the doctor emphasizes that tests are merely auxiliary tools in diagnostics.
"The conclusion is based on the clinical picture. That is why the examination is conducted by a narcologist. We analyze the patient's condition as a whole," the specialist clarified.
According to her, it is impossible to mask alcohol and drug intoxication. Doctors pay attention to signs such as skin redness, eye redness, as well as changes in speech and coordination.
"Some drivers refuse the Rapoport test or try to deceive the tests, for example, by taking oil or using droppers, but this does not help. If a person is drunk, we will determine it. And if the test gave a false result, that will also be established," added the narcologist.
Regarding kumys or bozo, the doctor explained that these drinks may contain alcohol, but the diagnosis is made based on their impact on cognitive functions: reaction, attention, thinking.
"If the consumption did not affect the person's condition, they will be deemed sober. However, most of the drivers brought in did indeed consume alcohol," noted Ashchi.
She also warned that alcohol is a depressant of the central nervous system, and although it may subjectively cause a feeling of euphoria, it actually worsens cognitive functions.
The main changes include:
- decreased self-criticism;
- worsening self-control;
- overestimation of one's abilities;
- emotional instability;
- slowing of reaction and worsening of concentration.
"Alcohol disables the internal controller. A person thinks they are in control, but this is an illusion. Alcohol reduces driving abilities," the doctor emphasized.Aliya Ashchi noted that there is no safe dose of alcohol. The body's reaction to alcohol is individual and depends on many factors, including age, weight, and overall health. "It is better not to drink at all or not to risk and not to drive while intoxicated," she added.
Even several hours after consumption, according to the doctor, cognitive functions may remain impaired.
Driving under the influence of drugs raises particular concern. Such cases are most often observed among young people.
"In 99% of cases, those driving under the influence are men. Alcohol is more common among middle-aged people, while drugs are prevalent among the youth," stated Aliya Ashchi.The clinical picture can vary depending on the substance used. Some drugs depress the central nervous system, causing sluggishness and lethargy, while others stimulate and provoke risky behavior. But the result always shows decreased concentration and slowed reaction.
"Both alcohol and drugs are equally dangerous while driving," concluded the specialist.In Kyrgyzstan, there are plans to tighten penalties for traffic violations.
- Thus, under the new bill, driving a vehicle while intoxicated will result in a two-year license suspension (currently one year).
- A repeated violation after the license suspension period will result in a four-year license suspension with temporary confiscation of the vehicle.
- Refusal to undergo testing for intoxication will lead to a two-year license suspension (currently a three-day arrest).
The image on the main page is illustrative: kolesa.kz.
