0800 470 0382
About This Page
There is a widespread binge drinking culture, but alcohol can be as addictive and destructive as any illegal or prescription drug. Alcohol abuse contributes to many illnesses and conditions, such as Wernicke Korsakoff syndrome- a degenerative brain disorder.[2]
That’s why at Rehab Clinics Group, we offer Alcohol rehab and detoxification within a residential setting to ensure you have the support you need.
About This Page
In the UK, alcohol is far more socially acceptable than other types of substance misuse. Media exposure helps influence social norms about alcohol.[1]
For physical dependency and withdrawal symptoms, alcohol can be far worse than many other substances. Cocaine and marijuana, for example, tend to produce mainly psychological withdrawal symptoms which can be serious in their own rights.
However, undergoing an alcohol detox can lead to a range of severe physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms.
The most serious symptom is delirium tremens, also known as DTs. It can last for several days and be very unpleasant and dangerous. In the worst cases, it can even be fatal, which is why it is always recommended you undergo detoxification in a medically supervised environment such as private drug and alcohol rehab.
Find a Rehab
Rehab Clinics Group are leading UK-based experts in alcohol rehabilitation treatment. Find out how we can help you recover and get your life on track by contacting our friendly team today. You can either call our confidential helpline on 0800 470 0382 or request a call back straight away by clicking on the below form.
What is Delirium Tremens?
Delirium tremens is the medical name given to a particularly severe form of alcohol withdrawal. It is worth noting that not all the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal are delirium tremens and that the DTs kick in some time after other withdrawal symptoms.
The alcohol scale CIWA-Ar provides one way to measure the severity of alcohol withdrawal symptoms, which can vary depending on the individual, the length, and severity of alcohol intake and other factors.
Delirium Tremens Symptoms
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms, in general, can be very unpleasant and can include a range of physical and psychological effects such as:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headaches and muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
- Confusion
- Fever and chills
- Heart palpitations
- Increased heart rate and/or blood pressure [4]
Some of the symptoms of delirium tremens are similar to other withdrawal symptoms, from which they tend to develop but may be more severe. They may also include:
- Tics and tremorous – commonly known as ‘the shakes’
- Visual, auditory or tactile hallucinations
- Confusion
- Seizures
Some of the most severe symptoms, such as alcohol withdrawal, delirium and withdrawal seizures, can be very serious and potentially life-threatening. Completing an alcohol detox in private drug and alcohol rehabilitation centres allows for medical supervision and appropriate treatment where required.
Delirium Tremens Causes and Risk Factors
As we know, delirium tremens stems from alcohol consumption over a long period. People with alcohol use disorders (AUD) find it difficult to moderate their drinking and are at more risk of experiencing withdrawal symptoms that may include delirium tremens.
Heavy alcohol use over a long period can change how the brain and nervous system work, and when it is suddenly removed, the system reacts.
Some risk factors include:
- Drinking more heavily prior to withdrawal
- Previous experience of withdrawal symptoms
- Underlying physical and mental health conditions
- Certain medications
- Age – DTs are more likely to occur in older drinkers
Delirium Tremens Diagnosis
A medical professional may make a delirium tremens diagnosis depending on the symptoms exhibited, sometimes using a tool like the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment scale. Medical professionals can make this diagnosis from rehab or other clinical settings.
How Long Do Delirium Tremens last?
Delirium tremens usually arise after suffering from other withdrawal symptoms and typically last around five days, although sometimes it may be longer.
Some symptoms, such as exhaustion and mood swings, can last longer. Going through this process can have lasting effects on your mental health; some mental health treatments or dual diagnosis treatments – where a mental health condition and addiction are treated simultaneously – may be required.
Delirium Tremens Treatment
If you are at risk of severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms, including delirium tremens, it is strongly advised you seek medical help or undergo a medically supervised detox. This will allow experts to observe you as you go through withdrawal and intervene when necessary.
The treatment of alcohol withdrawal may involve prescription medications to manage many symptoms and other medical interventions if deemed appropriate and necessary.
How can I get help?
If you are suffering from alcohol addiction, it is always best to seek professional help as soon as possible. Several addiction treatment options are available, but residential alcohol rehab is the most effective way of dealing with a serious addiction problem.
You can endure the withdrawal process in a medically supervised and safe setting, which is crucial if you experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms such as delirium tremens. Beyond that, a range of therapies and treatments will help you deal with the root cause of your addiction and develop coping strategies to avoid relapse.
Contact us today to start the admissions process rolling and move forward to a more positive life free of alcohol.
