How does alcohol consumption affect the eye's ability to exhibit HGN?

How does alcohol consumption affect the eye's ability to exhibit HGN?

• A. It enhances the smooth functioning of the eye muscles.
• B. It has no effect on eye movement.
• C. It impairs the smooth functioning of the eye muscles, resulting in abnormal eye movements.
• D. It can lead to temporary blindness.

Answer: (C)

Alcohol consumption impairs the smooth functioning of the eye muscles, leading to abnormal eye movements that can be observed during the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test. When a person consumes alcohol, it affects the central nervous system, which in turn can disrupt the vestibular system and the muscles responsible for eye movement. This disruption is evident as the eyes fail to smoothly track an object, often resulting in the presence of nystagmus—this is characterized by a jerky or oscillating motion rather than a smooth, fluid movement. The observable signs of HGN become more pronounced as blood alcohol concentration increases, making it a reliable indicator of impairment during sobriety tests.

Alcohol consumption impairs the smooth functioning of the eye muscles, leading to abnormal eye movements that can be observed during the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test. When a person consumes alcohol, it affects the central nervous system, which in turn can disrupt the vestibular system and the muscles responsible for eye movement. This disruption is evident as the eyes fail to smoothly track an object, often resulting in the presence of nystagmus—this is characterized by a jerky or oscillating motion rather than a smooth, fluid movement. The observable signs of HGN become more pronounced as blood alcohol concentration increases, making it a reliable indicator of impairment during sobriety tests.