Alcohol withdrawal

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Alcohol withdrawal

Alcohol withdrawal (pronounced: al-kuh-hawl with-drawl) is a set of symptoms that can occur when a person who has been drinking excessive amounts of alcohol on a regular basis suddenly stops drinking.

Etymology

The term "alcohol withdrawal" is derived from the Latin word "alcohol" meaning "spirit of wine" and the Old English word "withdrawal" meaning "to take back or away".

Symptoms

Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can range from mild to severe, and may include tremors, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, headache, increased heart rate, and seizures. In severe cases, it can lead to delirium tremens, a life-threatening condition characterized by severe agitation, confusion, hallucinations, and high blood pressure.

Causes

Alcohol withdrawal occurs when a person who is dependent on alcohol suddenly stops drinking. The body becomes accustomed to having a certain level of alcohol in the system and when that level drops, withdrawal symptoms can occur. This is known as physical dependence.

Treatment

Treatment for alcohol withdrawal typically involves a combination of medications to help manage symptoms and prevent complications. This may include benzodiazepines to help reduce anxiety and prevent seizures, and beta blockers to help manage high blood pressure and heart rate. In addition, counseling and support groups can be beneficial in helping individuals maintain abstinence from alcohol.

Related Terms

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