Delirium tremens (DTs) is a severe and potentially fatal form of alcohol withdrawal that occurs after a period of heavy drinking, typically in those with a history of chronic alcohol use and those who have previously experienced severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Key points about delirium tremens include:
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Symptoms: Symptoms of delirium tremens can include agitation, confusion, severe autonomic hyperactivity such as trembling, sweating, tachycardia, nausea, and vomiting, impaired consciousness, visual, tactile, or auditory hallucinations, tremors, seizures, chest pain, deep sleep, dehydration, excitability, fever, nightmares, and high blood pressure.
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Treatment: Delirium tremens is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment in a hospital. Medications used to treat delirium tremens include benzodiazepines to calm the excited nervous system, intravenous fluids with vitamins and minerals to treat dehydration, and other drugs to stabilize the bodys functions.
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Prognosis: Delirium tremens is serious and may be life-threatening, but with treatment, the survival rate is about 95%. The risk of death is higher if there are other severe medical conditions, and without treatment, about 15% of people with delirium tremens do not survive.
In conclusion, delirium tremens is a severe and life-threatening form of alcohol withdrawal that requires immediate medical care and treatment in a hospital setting. If someone is experiencing symptoms of delirium tremens, it is crucial to seek medical help promptly.
