Definition | Causes | Risk Factors | Symptoms | Diagnosis | Treatment | Prevention

Definition

Delirium tremens (DTs) is a severe disturbance of the brain caused by alcohol withdrawal.

Adult Brain

Brain Man Face
The sudden withdrawal or decrease of alcohol can cause severe disturbances in the brain.
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Causes

DTs occur when a person who repeatedly drinks large amounts of alcohol suddenly stops or decreases the amount of alcohol consumed.

Risk Factors

These factors increase your chance of developing DTs:

  • History of DTs
  • Other medical problems in addition to alcohol abuse
  • Brain damage
  • Age: Older than 30 years

Symptoms

Symptoms usually begin 2-4 days after suddenly stopping or decreasing alcohol intake. Symptoms may include:

  • Anxiety
  • Confusion / disorientation
  • Delirium —changing levels of alertness
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Bad dreams
  • Severe agitation
  • Fever
  • Hallucinations—the perception of a thing, voice, or person that is not present, both visual and auditory
  • Delusions—a false belief that is strongly held
  • Tremors of the hands, head, or body
  • Severe sweating
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Nausea
  • Increased rate of breathing
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Increased body temperature
  • Seizures

In severe cases, DTs can result in death, especially if untreated.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. The diagnosis of DTs is usually based on the symptoms and signs of the disorder. Tests may include:

  • You may have your bodily fluid tested. This can be done with blood tests to measure liver function, blood clotting ability, or electrolytes.
  • You may need to have your brain function evaluated. This can be done with electroencephalogram (EEG).
  • You may need to have pictures taken of your bodily structures. This can be done with:

Treatment

Treatment can be difficult. DTs are likely to last for 5-7 days. Clearing of DTs may begin in 12-24 hours, but may take up to 2-10 days. Treatment for alcohol abuse is necessary after DTs are under control.

Treatment may include:

Medication

Medicines may include:

  • Sedatives to:
    • Calm agitation
    • Ease withdrawal symptoms
  • Aspirin or acetaminophen to lower fever
  • Anti-seizure medicine

Vitamins and Fluids

Severe, life-threatening vitamin deficiency or dehydration may accompany DTs. Treatment may include:

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, like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).

If you are diagnosed as experiencing DTs, follow your doctor's instructions .

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.