Delirium Tremens Treatment Information
- By:Juliet Cohen
Delirium tremens is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal that involves sudden and severe mental or neurological changes.Delirium tremens can occur after a period of heavy alcohol drinking, especially when the person does not eat enough food. It may also be triggered by head injury, infection, or illness in people with a history of heavy use of alcohol. Approximately 10% of males and 3-5% of females are alcoholic; 5% of each group experiences DT. It is most common in people who have a history of alcohol withdrawal , especially in those who drink the equivalent of 7 - 8 pints of beer every day for several months.
Symptoms occur most often within 72 hours after the last glass, but can occur up to 7 - 10 days after the last glass. Symptoms may progress rapidly. Withdrawal symptoms include alcoholic feeling jumpy or nervous, feeling fragile, anxiety, irritability or easily excited, emotional instability, the speed of emotional changes, depression, fatigue, difficulty in thinking clearly, palpitations (sensation of smell 's heart beat), sweating, particularly palms of the hands or the face, nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. Delirium tremens is a medical emergency. The best management of DTs is prevention by vigorously treating initial signs and symptoms.
Supportive therapy is an important component of the treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome and DTs. Thiamine is useful in preventing of alcohol withdrawal syndrome and DTs. Multivitamins and folate frequently are administered to these patients. Haloperidol has been used successfully as adjunctive therapy for rapid control of agitation and alcohol-induced hallucinations. Do not use phenothiazines. Benzodiazepines or barbiturates treat seizures and manifestations of DT. Long-term preventive treatment may begin after the patient recovers from acute symptoms. This may involve a "drying out" period, in which no alcohol is allowed.
Delirium Tremens Treatment and Prevention Tips
1. Avoid or reduce the use of alcohol.
2. Supportive treatment consists of fluid.
3. Electrolyte replacement to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
4. Benzodiazepine medications such as diazepam are often used.
5. Haloperidol has been used successfully treatment of this condition.
6. Diazepam have been shown to be equally effective in the treatment of DTs. Chlordiazepoxide.About the author:
Juliet Cohen writes article for Home Remedies. She also writes articles for Makeup and Skin Care.