Common in hospitalized patients with significant history of alcohol abuse
Abrupt alcohol abstinence leads to reflex hyperactivity in certain parts of the brain
History / PE:
Early symptoms Anxiety, insomnia
Tremors, diaphoresis
Hallucination and withdrawal seizures (within first 24-48hrs)
Delerium tremens Usually occurs 48-96hrs after last drink
Hypertension , hyperthermia
Agitation, hallucinations
Possible death
Treatment:
Benzodiazepine (chlordiazepoxide)
Place patient in protective environment
