Alcohol Dependence Flashcards
What is classed as alcohol dependence?
When repeated drinking leads to harm in work or social life
How much does someone have to drink?
Intake ranges from binging to heavy daily use and is normally tied in with other life or health issues
What does it involve? (5)
Overwhelming desires for alcohol, drinking out of control, experiences withdrawal symptoms, little interest in other activities, continuing to drink even when harm is made clear
What effects does it have on the body?
Causes liver problems (fatty liver), Central Nerve problems, GI, blood and heart problems
What is the key feature of alcoholism?
Denial
Is it common?
Yes, 10% of males and 4% of females have a drinking problem, 24% of the english population consume alcohol in a way that is potentially harmful
What is the recommended weekly allowance?
14 units per week, with a day off drinking between episodes
What is the CAGE questionnaire?
Have you ever felt the need to Cut down? Have people ever Annoyed you by criticising you drinking? Have you ever felt Guilty about your drinking? Have you ever had a drink in the morning to settle a hangover or get the day started? (Eye opener)
Other tests
AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test)
Symptoms (3)
Withdrawal can start 10-72 hours after the last drink, confusion, seizures, hallucinations
Signs (7)
Tremor, tachycardia, hypotension, cirrhosis, korsakoff’s syndrome, anaemia, arrhythmias, dupyutren’s contracture
What is the best approach to treatment?
Be honest and non-judgemental
Drug Treatment (4)
Chlordiazepoxide (benzodiazepine to control withdrawal), IV Thiamine/Vitamin B solution (Pabrinex to treat Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome), Acamprosate (for anxiety), Disulfram (to prevent relapse)
Other treatment (7)
Detoxification, Close observations whilst withdrawing, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Alcoholics Anonymous Referral, Social support, treat any anxiety/depression
Is there a good prognosis?
50% of patients will relapse soon after treatment
