Which of the following is NOT a short-term impact of drugs and alcohol?

• A. Slurred speech
• B. High blood pressure
• C. Fatigue
• D. Nausea

Answer: (B)

Short-term effects are the immediate signs of intoxication your body shows while under the influence. Slurred speech happens because alcohol slows the brain areas that control coordination and speech, so words come out garbled. Fatigue arises as the body works to process the substance and you feel tired or sleepy. Nausea stems from stomach irritation and the body’s reaction to a toxin from the substance.

High blood pressure is not a typical short-term sign of drinking or using drugs for most people. While some stimulant drugs can raise blood pressure, that isn’t a universal immediate effect of drugs and alcohol in general, so it doesn’t fit with the common short-term impacts.