Alcohol withdrawal syndrome [Neurosurgery Wiki]

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====== Alcohol withdrawal syndrome ======

===== General information =====

Compensation for the CNS depressant effects of EtOH occurs in [[chronic alcoholism]]. Consequently, rebound CNS [[hyperactivity]] may result from falling EtOH levels. Clinical signs of EtOH withdrawal are classified as major or minor (the degree of [[autonomic hyperactivity]] and the presence/absence of DTs differentiates these), as well as early (24–48 hrs) or late (> 48 hrs).

Signs/symptoms include tremulousness, hyperreflexia, [[insomnia]], N/V, autonomic hyperactivity (tachycardia, systolic HTN), agitation, myalgias, and mild confusion. If [[Alcohol withdrawal seizures]] occur, they tend to be early. Perceptual disturbances or frank [[hallucinosis]] may also occur early. Hallucinosis consists of visual and/or auditory hallucinations with an otherwise clear sensorium (which distinguishes this from the hallucinations of [[delirium tremens]]). DTs can occur 3–4 days after cessation of drinking.

Suppressed by [[benzodiazepine]]s, resumption of drinking, β-adrenergic antagonists, or α2-agonists.

===== Prevention of and treatment for alcohol withdrawal syndrome =====

see [[Alcohol withdrawal syndrome treatment]]