Alcohol Dependence / Delirium Tremens Quiz

A condition where the patient is dependent on alcohol and will experience withdrawal symptoms if he/she does not have a drink. These withdrawal symptoms can be mild (e.g., irritation, sleeplessness) or severe (confusion, coma, and seizures).

• Hand tremors, irritability, palpitations and insomnia that occur when stopping alcohol

• I no longer function well at work or home because of drinking

• I always end up drinking more than I planned to

• Need to drink more than before, to get drunk

• Craving for alcohol

• Find it hard to controlling alcohol intake

• Dependent on alcohol / alcohol overuse despite the problems it causes

• Need a drink first thing in the morning (eye-opener) to steady my nerves

Severe symptoms require emergency medical care. Patients are hospitalized and given medications to control the withdrawal and avoid complications. Fluids and vitamins are provided through a needle in the vein to supplement the patient's wellbeing and protect the brain. In cases of seizures and severe mental confusion, the patient will be taken care of in the intensive care unit and will usually be on a breathing support machine and seizure aborting medications.