What is delirium tremens?

Delirium tremens refers to a severe and potentially lethal complication of alcohol withdrawal that typically occurs in individuals who are physically dependent on alcohol. This condition can manifest after a person dramatically reduces or stops alcohol intake, usually occurring 48 to 72 hours after the last drink. Symptoms of delirium tremens include extreme confusion, agitation, hallucinations, tremors, and autonomic instability, such as changes in heart rate and blood pressure.

This medical emergency requires immediate medical intervention, as it can lead to significant morbidity and mortality if not treated promptly. Management often includes the use of benzodiazepines to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and supportive care, including monitoring and hydration.

Other choices describe conditions that do not accurately capture the seriousness or clinical features of delirium tremens. Mild withdrawal symptoms typically do not escalate to the severe manifestations seen in delirium tremens. The first stage of alcohol withdrawal generally involves symptoms that are less intense than what characterizes delirium tremens. Additionally, while chronic alcoholism can lead to this extreme withdrawal syndrome, delirium tremens can occur in acute withdrawal scenarios as well, making it not limited to chronic alcohol users only.