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Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) is a set of symptoms that can occur following a reduction in or cessation of alcohol use after a period of excessive use. [1] Symptoms typically include anxiety , shakiness , sweating, vomiting, fast heart rate , and a mild fever. [ 1 ]
Management with a combination of abstinence from alcohol and the use of neuroleptics has been shown to be effective. [11] It is also possible to treat withdrawal before major symptoms start to happen in the body. Diazepam and chlordiazepoxide have proven to be effective in treating alcohol withdrawal symptoms such as alcoholic hallucinosis ...
A randomized, double blind trial published in JAMA in 1994 [5] showed that management for alcohol withdrawal that was guided by the CIWA scale resulted in decreased treatment duration and total use of benzodiazepines. The goal of the CIWA scale is to provide an efficient and objective means of assessing alcohol withdrawal.
Reinstatement of dependence after a period of abstinence. [2] Each item is scored on a 4-point scale, giving a possible range of 0 to 60. A score of over 30 indicates severe alcohol dependence. [3] Some local clinical guidelines use the SADQ to predict the levels of medication needed during alcohol detoxification. [4]
Acute alcohol poisoning is a medical emergency due to the risk of death from respiratory depression or aspiration of vomit if vomiting occurs while the person is unresponsive. Emergency treatment strives to stabilize and maintain an open airway and sufficient breathing while waiting for the alcohol to metabolize.
A protracted withdrawal syndrome can occur with symptoms persisting for months to years after cessation of substance use. Benzodiazepines, opioids, alcohol, and any other drug may induce prolonged withdrawal and have similar effects, with symptoms sometimes persisting for years after cessation of use. Psychosis including severe anxiety and ...
Treatment for alcoholic cardiomyopathy involves lifestyle changes, including complete abstinence from alcohol use, a low sodium diet, and fluid restriction, as well as medications. Medications may include ACE inhibitors , beta blockers , and diuretics which are commonly used in other forms of cardiomyopathy to reduce the strain on the heart.
The following elements are the template for which the degree of dependence is judged: Narrowing of the drinking repertoire. Increased salience of the need for alcohol over competing needs and responsibilities. An acquired tolerance to alcohol. Withdrawal symptoms. Relief or avoidance of withdrawal symptoms by further drinking.