Delirium tremens (DTs) is a severe disturbance of the brain caused by alcohol withdrawal. This condition is serious and can cause death. About 5%-10% of alcohol-dependent people experience DTs.
Causes
DTs occur when a person who repeatedly drinks large amounts of alcohol suddenly stops or decreases the amount of alcohol consumed.
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for DTs include:
Symptoms
Symptoms usually begin 1-3 days after suddenly stopping or decreasing alcohol intake. Symptoms may include:
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Anxiety
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Confusion
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Delirium (changing levels of consciousness)
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Trouble sleeping
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Bad dreams
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Severe agitation
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Fever
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Hallucinations (the perception of a thing or person that is not present)
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Delusions (a false belief that is held strongly)
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Tremors of the hands, head, or body
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Severe sweating
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Rapid heartbeat
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Nausea
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Increased rate of breathing
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Increased blood pressure
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Increased body temperature
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Seizures
In severe cases, DTs can result in death, especially if untreated.
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. The diagnosis of DTs is usually based on the symptoms and signs of the disorder. Tests may include:
Treatment
Treatment can be difficult. DTs are likely to last for 5-7 days regardless of the therapy used. Clearing of DTs may begin in 12-24 hours, but may take up to 2-10 days. Treatment for alcohol abuse is necessary once DTs are under control.
Treatment may include:
Medication
Medications may include:
Vitamins and Fluids
Severe, life-threatening vitamin deficiency or dehydration may accompany DTs. Treatment may include oral or injected:
Rehabilitation
Treatment for alcohol abuse may be done in a hospital setting or while living at home. It may involve individual or group therapy. Many people seek support by participating in groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).
Prevention
To prevent having DTs, do not abuse alcohol. If you do drink large amounts on a regular basis, do not suddenly decrease the amount or stop drinking on your own. Rather, get advice from your doctor on the safest way to lower your intake.
RESOURCES:
Alcoholics Anonymous
http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org
American Academy of Family Physicians
http://www.aafp.org
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
http://www.niaaa.nih.gov
References:
American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: http://www.aafp.org.
Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 15th ed. McGraw-Hill Professional Publishing; 2001.
The Merck Manual of Medical Information. Simon and Schuster, Inc.; 2000.
National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism website. Available at: http://www.niaaa.nih.gov.
