What could cause a person to appear intoxicated aside from actual intoxication?

A person can appear intoxicated for various reasons that mimic the signs of actual intoxication. One primary factor is the presence of a medical condition or the use of certain medications. Some medical conditions, such as neurological disorders, can affect balance, coordination, and speech, leading to behavior that may be mistaken for intoxication. Additionally, certain medications, particularly those that are sedatives, narcotics, or those that affect the central nervous system, can impair cognitive and motor functions, creating the illusion of drunkenness.

The other options, while they can contribute to behaviors that might appear intoxicated, do not have the same direct correlation as medical conditions or specific medications. For example, fatigue or dehydration can impair cognitive function and coordination, and lack of sleep or stress can lead to confusion and disorientation, but these are more about temporary states rather than inherent medical or pharmacological causes. Extreme weather conditions can also affect physiological responses but are less likely to produce the consistent symptoms associated with intoxication compared to medical issues or medication effects. Thus, identifying medical conditions or medications is critical for accurately assessing someone’s state.