Delirium tremens (the DTs) is a severe reaction to withdrawal from alcohol. Delirium tremens can be deadly. The DTs usually start 24 to 72 hours after a person who is dependent on alcohol either stops or limits drinking.
Chronic drinking changes the way the body and brain work. When you drink less or completely stop drinking, your body and brain chemistry change again. While you are going through these changes, you suffer severe reactions.
Symptoms of the DTs include:
Delirium tremens is a medical emergency. A healthcare provider will take your medical history, including your history of alcohol use. He or she will give you a physical exam and may order blood tests and X-rays. Be as honest as you can about your drinking. Without accurate information your provider cannot help you.
Do not try to withdraw from heavy, prolonged use of alcohol without help. If you have symptoms of the DTs, someone should take you to the emergency room at a hospital.
In the hospital, you will be closely watched and sedated if necessary to prevent injury to yourself and others. Your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing will be checked often. You will be given a special diet and intravenous (IV) fluids. The provider may prescribe medicines to keep you calm and prevent seizures. You may receive vitamin supplements as well.
The symptoms of delirium tremens usually last 1 to 5Â days. However, they can last for as long as 10Â days.
You can help take care of yourself by following these guidelines:
To keep from having DTs, do not abuse alcohol. If you do drink large amounts for a long time, do not suddenly decrease the amount or stop drinking on your own. Talk with your healthcare provider about a safe way to stop abusing alcohol.
If you are hospitalized for a reason other than alcohol abuse and you are a chronic drinker, inform your provider and caregivers so they can prepare to treat delirium tremens. If you keep this information from your provider, you may have serious complications that could result in death.
