Addiction Solution Source

Delirium Tremens (also called the “DTs” or “the shakes”) is a dramatic and dangerous complication of alcoholism which can occur during a period of alcohol withdrawal especially when the person does not eat enough food.

Common symptoms include anxiety, restlessness, irritability, confusion, and tremors. The DTs can also involve hallucinations and disorientation and may persist for up to seven days. This condition is a medical emergency and the goal is to relieve symptoms and save the persons life. The patient may need to be put into a sedated state. Benzodiazepine medications such as diazepam are often used. This drug also helps treat seizures, anxiety, and tremors.

Long-term preventive treatment may begin after the patient recovers from the acute symptoms. This may involve a “drying out” period, in which no alcohol is allowed. The person should receive treatment for alcohol use or alcoholism, including counseling, support groups (such as Alcoholics Anonymous, and other behavior modifications.

A detox program along with a comprehensive nutrition program will help in  recovery.

The patient should also be tested, and if necessary, treated for other medical problems associated with alcohol use. Such problems may include alcoholic liver disease, blood clotting disorders, alcoholic neuropathy, alcoholic cardiomyopathy, and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.