ELI5. Why is it that when you’re drunk, things don’t seem as loud? For example, music.
In: Biology
First how neurons work: they constantly pump in and out ions leading to a positive charge outside and negative inside. Once a certain input is given to that cell (depending on type) a floodgate opens letting ions flow back to create a neutral charge. This process stimulates itself in a feedback loop, so once it starts there is no stopping it. And thus signals gets transmitted.
When there is alcohol in your blood the neurons flood gate to create the impulse is less sensitive and thus will reach the point of no return less likely. Your hearing is a really sensitive organ and when muted slightly you hear a lot less.
You are impaired. Your body is working as intended, but your brain isn’t processing at capacity.
I don’t know for sure, but I’d guess its down to the desensitising of your body. Your body is trying to fight off the alcohol, so has less power to concentrate on the noises around you. Seems plausible?
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