Alcohol Flashcards
What is Korsakoff syndrome?
Chronic memory disorder caused by severe deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B-1)
Commonly caused by alcohol abuse
How has consumption of alcohol by different age groups changed over time?
Older people doing more of the drinking now
Which groups show the most worrying trends in harm from alcohol?
Men
Older people
Home drinking
Long term health conditions
How has pandemic affected alcohol consumption and harm?
Accelerated long established trend to home drinking
Cemented key role of major supermarkets in alcohol retail
Fall in alcohol related trauma
Light drinkers drinking less
Heavy drinkers drinking more
Likely leading to increased chronic health harm
What are some low dose effects of alcohol?
Euphoria
Reduced anxiety
Relaxation
Sociability
What are some high dose effects of alcohol?
Intoxication Impaired attention/judgement Unsteadiness Flushing Nystagmus Mood instability Disinhibition Slurring Stupor Unconsciousness
What diagnoses alcohol dependence?
3 or more of the following for 1 month or repeatedly over 12
Cravings/compulsions to take Difficulty controlling use Primacy Increased tolerance Physiological withdrawal on reduction/cessation Persistence despite harmful consequences
What are some characteristics of delirium tremens?
Profound confusion, tremor, agitation, hallucinations, delusions, sleeplessness, autonomic over-activity
What is Wernicke’s encephalopathy?
Confusion Ataxia Opthalmoplegia Nystagmus Caused by thiamine deficiency
Why does alcohol cause thiamine deficiency?
Poor intake and absorption, poor hepatic function, increased requirement for alcohol metabolism
What is a screening tool for alcohol problems?
Cutting down?
Annoyed by criticisms?
Guilty?
Eye-opener need?
Which drugs can help with alcohol withdrawal?
Benzodiazepines
Chlordiazepoxide
Lorazepam for psychotic, depressed or resp impaired
Name a deterrent med.
Disulfiram
Name some anti-craving meds.
Acamprosate (Campral)
Naltrexone
Nalmefene
(Baclofen)
