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What is Delirium Tremens?

Delirium Tremens is the most severe form of alcohol withdrawal. Delirium Tremens is also known as the DTs. Delirium tremens is characterized by the usual symptoms of alcohol withdrawal such as tremor, sweating, vomiting, anxiety and agitation, as well as a number of symptoms that are specific to delirium tremens. Specific symptoms which distinguish delirium tremens from more mild alcohol withdrawal are the presence of mental confusion, disorientation in time and place, and the presence of visual hallucinations.

What are the dangers associated with delirium tremens?

Delirium tremens is fatal in 10% of cases where it goes untreated. The disorientation and confusion associated with delirium tremens lead to accidents which may be severe. As with other forms of alcohol withdrawal, delirium tremens may be associated with the occurrence of epileptic seizures and the development of Wenicke’s syndrome, both of which may lead to fatality.

How is delirium tremens treated?

Delirium tremens is treated primarily as for any other alcohol withdrawal syndrome. As such detoxification treatment will be the mainstay of treatment for delirium tremens. However, additional medication such as haloperidol may need to be prescribed to control psychotic and confusional symptoms of delirium tremens. Careful attention should be paid to the maintenance of fluid balance, and for emerging Wernicke’s encephalopathy signs.

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