Delirium tremens is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal that can be life-threatening. This form of withdrawal typically occurs in people who are physically dependent on alcohol. It is common for symptoms of delirium tremens to appear between 48 and 72 hours after they have had their last drink. It’s important to understand the causes of this dangerous withdrawal symptom, the risk factors associated with it, and how to recognize it so that it can be treated effectively.
What Causes Delirium Tremens?
Delirium tremens occur when someone has a sudden decrease or complete elimination of alcohol from their body after having a long history of alcohol abuse. This sudden change in drinking habits triggers the body to go through an extreme physical reaction, which can cause serious health complications if not addressed properly.
Associated Signs and Symptoms
The most common signs and symptoms of delirium tremens include disorientation, confusion, agitation, hallucinations, sweating and fever. Other symptoms may include rapid heartbeat, increased blood pressure, seizures and tremors. In extreme cases, these symptoms may lead to coma or even death if not treated quickly enough. Those experiencing these symptoms may also be faced with psychological distress such as anxiety and depression due to their abrupt withdrawal from alcohol.
Risk Factors for Developing Delirium Tremens
Alcoholics who have been drinking heavily for a long period of time are at a higher risk for developing delirium tremens upon abruptly stopping their drinking habits. Additionally, those with preexisting medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease are also at a higher risk for experiencing these serious withdrawal symptoms. People who binge drink or drink large amounts of alcohol in one sitting are also more likely to develop these symptoms if they abruptly stop drinking without any professional assistance or medical intervention. In some cases, individuals who have abused other substances such as benzodiazepines or opioids may be more likely to experience delirium tremens following abrupt cessation of their substance abuse.
Quitting Alcohol Is Possible With Help From The Experts at Innovo Detox
Delirium tremens is a potentially fatal condition caused by the sudden decrease or complete elimination of alcohol from the body after prolonged periods of heavy drinking habits. Those at highest risk include individuals with preexisting medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease, those who binge drink, and those who have abused other substances such as benzodiazepines or opioids in addition to alcohol. It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms associated with delirium tremens so that this serious condition can be identified early on and treated promptly. If you think you or someone you know might be suffering from delirium tremens due to alcoholism, seek help immediately from the addiction specialists at Innovo Detox today.
If you or someone you know needs help with addiction or co-occurring disorders, please give us a call. Innovo Detox offers the latest in evidence-based medical, psychiatric, and clinical care for those in need of detox and medical stabilization in Pennsylvania and the surrounding Mid-Atlantic area. If we aren’t the best fit for you or a loved one, we will take the necessary time to work with you to find a detox, rehab, treatment center or provider that better fits your needs. Please give us a call at (717) 912-4297 or email our team at info@innovodetox.com. For more information on our company or services, please visit our website at www.innovodetox.com.