$Unique_ID{BRK01164}
$Pretitle{Community and Social Problems}
$Title{Can You Explain a Little About the "DT's"?}
$Subject{alcohol withdrawal DT's}
$Volume{Q-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Can You Explain a Little About the "DT's"?


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QUESTION:  Can you explain a little about the "DT's"?  Is it just a case of
the "shakes" or can it be a serious condition that might possibly be fatal?
Please mention a bit about treatment as well.  Thanks, this is an important
question for us.

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ANSWER:  "DT's" or perhaps a bit more precise "delirium tremens" is a form of
mental illness, brought on by a withdrawal from alcohol, which causes the
sufferer to lose touch with reality.  The primary symptoms of the "delirium"
component often center around terrifying and vivid hallucinations:  sounds,
smells, and sights which only exist in the patient's mind.  For instance, the
person may see snakes, or feel ants crawling all over his body.  The "tremens"
part, however, is the more important factor indicating the underlying danger
because it is characterized by a soaring heart rate, seizures (shakes),
sweating, and hypertension which can lead (among other things) to heart and
kidney failure.
     Treatment for DT's, as it is commonly called by many, is often a complex
process, the success of which depends on the basic health of the individual.
Usually it begins with a prescribed sedative such as diazepam to calm the
central nervous system, plenty of fluids, electrolytes to replenish lost body
salts, continued abstinence from alcohol, and multivitamins and sound
nutrition to bring the body back to normal function.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
