Alcohol withdrawal syndrome

Heavy drinkers will experience withdrawal symptoms following abstinence. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome includes seizures (20-30% chronic users); hallucinations (15-30% hospitalized chronic users) and 5-10% delirium tremens (fatal complication of alcohol withdrawal). After alcohol withdrawal, relapse should be prevented. Mechanism of this withdrawal syndrome isn’t understood however, metabolic changes in body may be the cause. Risk factors for developing delirium tremens include prior history of delirium tremens and seizures. Lack of access to alcohol with lack of identification of alcohol abuse is predisposing factors of withdrawal syndromes. Failure in recognition of intoxication and withdrawal syndromes can lead to mortality and morbidity. Poor outcome is associated with intercurrent illnesses, fluid and electrolyte imbalances.